Good morning. Here are the top stories you need to know today:
Breakdown nation: Insurance scrambles with claims as Eskom collapses from global leader to local pariah
Eskom was once seen as a thriving company and model of efficiency – the envy of the world over for those who wished they had a well-run power utility in their country. In 2001, Eskom was voted the best power utility in the world, over 20 years later and the company is struggling to keep the lights on.
In today’s special report, News24 details Eskom’s fall from grace and the effects rolling blackouts have on insurance claims due to increased burglaries, travellers missing flights and the health of those who are reliant on medical machines. (News24)
Opposition parties unite to condemn ANC for crippling energy crisis
Opposition parties rarely cut the same line but on load shedding, they can all agree that the government is not best equipped to deal with the energy crisis.
The DA has proposed bringing in external help at Eskom with this person having carte blanche to make changes and take action as they see fit. The EFF has called for the board as well as the CEO and COO to be fired. And the IFP said there needs to be diversification of the power supply and the introduction of independent power producers. (Daily Maverick)
Stage-5 power cuts to continue
And there seems to be no light at the end of the tunnel (we’ll take any light at this point) with Eskom saying stage 5 was set to continue on Wednesday. The power utility said load shedding may be reduced to stage 4 on Thursday but it couldn’t make any guarantees.
“Eskom apologies for the continued and unfortunate load shedding,” it said. (Tech Central)
Here’s what else we’re reading today:
Dollar ascendant as investors gear up for Fed – SABC
Asian stocks decline ahead of expected Fed hike: markets wrap
Load-shedding relief derailed — 3 of 25 delayed private power projects ready for signoff – MyBroadband
From small businesses to manufacturing, power blackouts having massive impact – SABC
SA shoppers abandon trolleys as load shedding kills pay points – News24
Public sector unions get certificate to strike – News24
It’s official – Jack Dorsey will be deposed as part of Elon Musk’s $44 billion Twitter court battle – Business Insider
Once-off withdrawal from your existing retirement savings may now be allowed, Treasury says – News24
Apple quietly made small change inside iPhone 14 making it ‘the most repairable iPhone in years’ – Business Insider
