How to Survive Load Shedding in Johannesburg (2025 Edition)

Eskom has confirmed what many Joburgers feared: intermittent load shedding is expected well into early 2026, with maintenance delays, diesel supply issues, and pressure on grid stability continuing.

You can’t control the outages – but you can control how ready you are. Here’s your Joburg-ready guide to staying powered, safe, and sane during the blackouts.

Know Your Zone & Schedule

Load shedding is still managed in stages 1 to 8. City Power and Eskom customers may have different blocks and schedules.

Here’s how to stay prepped:

• Use load shedding apps like EskomSePush

• Monitor your area’s published load shedding block

• Set calendar reminders so you’re not caught off guard

“If you’re reacting to outages instead of planning around them, you’re already behind.”

Image 1: EWN

Also read: https://www.joburgetc.com/johannesburg/city-power-vs-eskom-joburg-electricity-2025/

Get Smart About Backup Power

Joburgers in 2025 are investing more than ever in inverters, UPS systems, and solar hybrids.

Budget options:

• Power banks (20,000 mAh+)

• LED rechargeable bulbs

• Mini inverters for WiFi/laptops

Mid-range setups:

• Solar starter kits

• Plug-and-play inverter trolleys

High-end solutions:

• Full solar + lithium battery systems for homes

Surge protectors are a must – post-load-shedding power spikes are still damaging appliances.

Image 2: WIRED

Cooking & Eating During Outages

Four-hour cuts are common – don’t get stuck without a plan.

• Use gas stoves, pre-cooked meals, or solar cookers

• Store boiled water in thermal flasks

• Cooler bags and insulated containers help meals last longer

Freezers stay cold up to 48 hours if unopened. Don’t peek.

Image 3: Retail Therapy Online

Light It Up Without Fire Risk

There’s no excuse for dangerous candles in 2025.

• LED lanterns and rechargeable lights are widely available

• Keep them charged and placed strategically

• Solar garden lights can double up indoors overnight

Pro tip: Build a “blackout bag” with essentials like torches, chargers, and lighters.

Image 4: Electric Wholesalers

Safety Starts at Home

Security systems are only effective if they have backup power.

• Test all gate motors, alarms, and garage door batteries regularly

• Set up mobile alerts for disarmed systems

• Use solar motion lights for extra visibility after dark

Image 5: Takealot.com

Traffic & Driving Tips

Over 1,000 traffic lights in Gauteng go out daily during peak load shedding.

• Treat out-of-order lights as four-way stops

• Drive defensively and expect delays

• Plan around high-traffic cut slots (6–10am and 4–8pm)

Apps like Google Maps and Waze are handy for spotting congestion in real time.

Image 6: MyBroadband

Medication & Medical Needs

If medication needs refrigeration, make a plan:

• Insulated cooler bags or mini fridges with UPS backup

• Keep fridge closed during outages

• Check with your pharmacist about shelf life during blackouts

Need medical devices powered 24/7? Consider a dedicated battery or generator with voltage control.

Image 7: TimesLIVE

Your Mental Blackout Toolkit

Load shedding isn’t just physical – it’s mental.

• Download entertainment in advance: podcasts, movies, music

• Start a “dark hours” ritual – from journaling to puzzles

• Spend the time tech-free or reconnecting with family

Even load shedding can be a break – if you prep your mindset.

Image 8: Reddit

Load Shedding Checklist (2025)

• Charged devices + power banks
• Working backup lighting
• Thermal flask + ready meals
• Cash + topped-up fuel tank
• Security system batteries tested
• Apps set for schedule tracking
• Entertainment downloaded
• Calm, flexible attitude

Also read: https://www.joburgetc.com/johannesburg/backup-power-solutions-small-businesses-joburg/

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Source: IOL

Featured Image: First Energy Solar Installers