Many people are under the impression that residences use the least amount of electricity in South Africa, but are expected to make the most sacrifices in times of shortage.

While it may be true that businesses and industries generally use more electricity, it is the residences that constitute 80% of the demand during peak hours (from 6:00 – 9:00 and 18:00 – 21:00).

During this time, the stability of the electricity grid in South Africa is in the hands of residential users. Eskom has therefore introduced the National Power Alert banner on television. Power Alert informs TV viewers of the state of power supply during evening peak hours, and calls upon the public to respond by switching off all less urgent appliances when the situation becomes critical.

It is up to all South Africans to make sure they are legal and responsible users of this precious resource – electricity.