Eskom power stations operating normally
While there have been isolated incidents by protesting workers, Eskom’s power stations and other critical facilities are operating optimally.
“Eskom’s power stations and other critical facilities continue to operate optimally in line with the contingency measures that the company has put in place to ensure security of power supply during this period of wildcat strikes,” the power utility said on Wednesday.
Eskom said there were incidents where some protesting workers tried to blockade the entrances of power stations.
“These situations have been quelled by the presence of the Public Order Police. The situation remains tense but stable,” it said in an update.
The power utility’s update comes as the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) on Tuesday rejected its wage offer of 0%. The unions are demanding a 15% wage increase.
It expected that the unions will stage lunchtime pickets in response to the 0% increment on Thursday.
On Tuesday, the power utility which employees over 47 000 employees said it found itself in a difficult financial situation hence the 0% increment. It also added that it has contingency plans in place for the pickets.
“Due to the difficult financial situation that the company currently faces, Eskom has decided to offer no salary increases this year.”
It also reminded workers that it is an essential service provider and that employees are not allowed to participate in strike actions.
“We appreciate and thank our employees who continue to work hard to keep the lights on. The safety of all our employees is of paramount importance to us during this time,” said Eskom.