Mapaballo Borotho

Johannesburg residents have been urged to use electricity sparingly this week, as a cold front sweeps across Gauteng.
This comes after the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued warnings of frigid temperatures that are expected to last until Friday, with a possibility of light snow and rainfall.
The cold weather conditions are expected to increase electricity usage, which could put a strain on the electricity network across various metros.
City Power spokesperson, Isaac Mangena, says the surge in demand is typically driven by the use of space heaters, electric blankets, geysers, and other high-consumption appliances, which may result in localised overloading of infrastructure, especially in areas where the network is already constrained.
“This significantly raises the risk of unplanned outages. We appeal to residents and businesses to help us reduce the pressure on the grid by using electricity efficiently and adopting alternative ways to stay warm. Customers are encouraged to, limit the use of heaters and electric blankets, especially during peak hours (06h00–09h00 and 17h00– 21h00).
“Use gas heaters or fireplaces safely, where possible, as alternatives to electrical heating,” Mangena added.
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