Background information

Background information :: How to participate :: Pamphlets & Brochures :: Power Alert website

Background to Eskom power management programmes

Power management programmes have been launched by Eskom to reduce the overall use of electricity in households, the commercial sector and industry.

Simultaneously, efforts are being made to publicise the various Eskom initiatives and so gain public support for their implementation. The major programmes presently being undertaken; Power Alert, solar water heating, the introduction and exchange of compact fluorescent lamps and energy efficient motors are discussed below.

Power Alert
The power alert gauge is a media tool that is well known to most South Africans. A common sight on SABC television stations, it gives consumers a quick insight into the power generation situation in South Africa and warning of when there is a significant strain on the network.

As the gauge's s needle moves through its various stages ( green, orange, red or brown) viewers on SABC 1, 2 & 3 are alerted to the status of power supply on a national level and can follow on-screen instructions designed to alleviate specific problems. They can, for example, be requested to switch off appliances and leave on only necessary lights and appliances.