Between November 2007 and January 2008, South Africa was plunged into darkness due to widespread loadshedding as the measures that were meant to make provision for the increased electrification program and economical growth, were both slow and inadequate. In the 12 years that followed, loadshedding has become a regular occurrence in the country, much to the dismay of already fed-up residents. As our constrained power system struggles increasingly to meet demands, loadshedding will become more prevalent in a bid to ward off a total nationwide blackout.
Electricity supply and demand need to remain balanced
While we, the citizens of South Africa, may not be able to rebuild our electricity infrastructure or force our government to become more pro-active, we do yield a substantial amount of power. At present, there are approximately 1.1 million #ImStaying members who CAN help ease the pressure on the electricity grid by adjusting the way they consume electricity. By adhering to simple power-saving practices such as switching off any lights that are not needed and reducing your pool pump timer by an hour, the electricity demand can be lowered considerably.
We are the light. We have the power.
A simple shift in mindset will also amplify our collective efforts substantially. As individuals, we are often of the belief that one person cannot make a difference. While this may appear to be the truth, it is pivotal that we zoom out and look at the bigger picture. If one million people who believe that their individual efforts won’t make a difference stand together, they WILL make a colossal impact.
This is a call to action to not only the current members of the #ImStaying Movement but every individual and organization in South Africa that has been affected by our power crisis. The time has come to unite and be a part of the solution, instead of wasting time and energy complaining about the problem. We want to extend an invitation to everyone reading this to join hands in taking back our power.
In the coming days, we will be adding a new section to our website that will contain power-saving tips and a range of downloadable reminders, posters, and banners for both private and business use. We will also start sharing feasible tips on the #ImStaying Facebook Group while posing challenges to our members to commit to saving electricity and money with us on a daily basis. With your help, we can find a solution to our electricity concerns and help improve the quality of living for all South Africans!
Edited By: Justine Bishop
For more positive and uplifting stories visit us at #ImStaying
GOOD THOUGHTS • GOOD WORDS • GOOD DEEDS
