Addressing Power Blackouts in Western Cape’s Healthcare Sector

Premier Alan Winde and Dr. Keith Cloete, Head of the Western Cape Department of Health, recently convened at the 17th Energy Digicon to discuss the persistent issue of power blackouts affecting the healthcare sector in Western Cape, South Africa. They examined the adverse effects of these blackouts on health services and possible solutions to tackle this crisis.

The Energy Digicon Platform

The Energy Digicon serves as an open platform for discussing the Western Cape Government’s (WCG) strategies to combat power outages and how citizens can contribute to solving this issue. Winde emphasized the long-term nature of finding a solution to the energy crisis, urging patience and persistence from residents.

Impact on Healthcare Services

Power outages significantly hamper the capacity to deliver healthcare, affecting the operation of medical equipment, computers, digital records, cold storage, and telecommunications. Moreover, these blackouts have a profound impact on staff morale, adding stress and pressure to health workers who are already working under challenging conditions.

Efforts to Combat the Crisis

To combat this issue, ten hospitals in Western Cape are currently exempted from load shedding up to stage 6. Additionally, the Department is in talks with Eskom to install a dedicated feeder for the Khayelitsha District Hospital at a cost of R1.5 million to have it exempted from power cuts as well.

Nearly 200 healthcare facilities that have not been exempted have installed generators, although it has been at a significant cost. To further mitigate the effects of load shedding, the Department plans to install solar photovoltaic embedded generators at 15 hospitals for a combined total peak generation of 5MW. UPS systems have also been installed to keep life support medical equipment, operating theatres, and EMS call centers operational during blackouts.

The Department is also considering supplying 138 clinics with inverters and lithium batteries to seamlessly provide essential power supply during load shedding. Smart meters have been installed at 68 facilities across the province to keep track of energy usage, and an electrical supply preparedness plan has been developed to outline activities that would cushion the impact of load shedding beyond stage 6.

Collaboration and Commitment

Hospitals and healthcare facilities are actively working to reduce their energy consumption during peak times while maintaining the highest possible healthcare standards. The collaborative efforts showcased in the 17th Energy Digicon reveal the commitment of Western Cape’s authorities and healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive uninterrupted healthcare services despite the ongoing energy crisis.