According to the information received from Eskom:
(1) At present, Eskom is engaging with both the Department of Health and the Department of Water and Sanitation regarding their points of supply in the Eskom supply area identified as critical. Once this has been completed, where possible, measures will be implemented to mitigate the impact of loadshedding as far as practically possible. Currently, Eskom exempts or partially exempts 25 public health establishments within its area of supply.
(2) Where a facility is deeply embedded in the network, partial exemption at lower stages of loadshedding has been granted. Eskom has concluded a preliminary assessment of establishing dedicated feeders for certain hospitals. This assessment has been shared with the Department of Health, and discussions on implementation are ongoing. A similar approach will be followed for other critical infrastructure.
(3)(a)(b) The implementation time is envisaged to take between 12 to 24 months, after the investment decision, depending on the type of solution and other factors such as environmental approvals and land acquisition. The impact on grid stability is minimal, as the System Operator will continue to balance demand and supply.
(4) The Minister has decided to file an urgent appeal to set aside the judgment. Therefore, the application by the Minister to appeal will suspend the operation and execution of a judgment of the High Court, pending the outcome of the application.
However, Eskom continues its endeavours to provide whatever relief is possible, given the design of the grid that the hospital or essential service is connected to. All of the above, is, of course, dependent on the total megawatts available from the generation system. It is the latter that is the fundamental cause of the current limitations on energy availability.
Remarks: Approved / Not Approved
Jacky Molisane PJ Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
Date: Date: