A deadlock in talks led to a wildcat strike at the utility.

Eskom said it’s this strike action that’s to blame for the latest bout of power cuts.

William Mabapa, NUM general secretary said: "We were having a joint meeting with Numsa and NUM so that we can consolidate on a position and I can confirm that we have consolidated on one position and we have been given a mandate.

"We are going to sign. So, we are meeting with Eskom after lunch so probably we can assure that we have a mandate to sign today.”

eNCA