A problem exists in South Africa with load shedding having to be used to try to keep abreast of the increased demand for electrical use in various local regions. The load shedding is also known as rolling blackouts and it occurs when the demand for electricity overtakes the supply and taxes the transmission lines that bring power from the generators to the homes and offices that are consuming it. Other problems can also cause load shedding, such as damage to the electrical generators or with the natural resources such as coal that provide fuel to produce electricity.

Solutions for this problem can be found in every level of usage, from the homeowner or office worker to larger companies that use greater amounts of electricity. Part of the problem is on the user side, with more users demanding power during peak times when the electrical generators are in high demand. This high demand can overtax the power suppliers, causing them to use load shedding as a means of protecting the power plants. If power strips and conservative usage was staggered, the demand on the electrical generators would be more evenly distributed, allowing for greater usage for all.

The other side of the problem deals with the infrastructure of the power generator and the electrical equipment used to distribute power from high voltage into usable wattage for lights, appliances and machines. This requires investing money and time for rebuilding and repairing the current facilities being used. Conservation and control of the fuel being used in the electrical generators will become important as this problem is addressed. Education of consumers and elected officials in the basic principles of supply and demand of electrical usage as well as the need for a complete overhaul of the system as a whole will be part of the solution. It will take efforts from developers, users and elected officials across the area to come together to solve the problem of load shedding and power outages. This problem concerning electrical generators, demand and usage of electricity has been occurring for a number of years, working together and education is part of the solution to solve South Africa’s power issues.