The power utility says this is what led to delays in planned maintenance and repairs.

It adds this will likely prolong rolling blackouts. Workers went on a strike following failed wage negotiations.

"Eskom is an essential service company and by law there is no industrial action that is permitted," spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha said.

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"Eskom has to make sure its workers are at work and those who are not were given leave.

"Eskom will have to check who was at work and those who were not, what are the reasons," he said.

"There are disciplinary processes and Eskom will pursue those. We will employ those mechanisms.”

eNCA