Eskom will implement stage 2 load shedding from 08:00 until 22:00 on Wednesday as a result of multiple unit breakdowns.

A total of ten generation units have broken down at seven power stations in a matter of two days, the power utility said in a statement on Tuesday evening. The utility blamed "unreliable and aged" infrastructure. 

"There is a high probability that additional stages of load shedding may be implemented at short notice," Eskom warned.

A generator each broke down at Arnot, Medupi, Lethabo and Matla power stations, while two units each broke down at Majuba, Camden and Tutuka. 

Unplanned breakdowns amounted to 11 435MW on Tuesday evening about a quarter of Eskom's nameplate capacity. Some 5 000 MW was already out on planned maintenance. 

* Compiled by Marelise van der Merwe