FEDHASA Cape has requested a meeting with Eskom to discuss how the hospitality industry can help save electricity.

Fedhasa Cape chairman, Nils Heckscher, says, “The way the crisis is being managed is crucial to South Africa’s image as an investment and leisure destination. Rather than add fuel to the fire, Fedhasa hopes to come up with a plan that will support Eskom and in turn support the hospitality industry.” 

Chris von Ulmenstein, chairperson of the smaller accommodation
segment, says a clearly identified load-shedding schedule would help the industry to plan and organise staff off-times so as to least inconvenience the guests.  She says establishments are worst hit at breakfast time, but many have bought generators or gas stoves. Those that have not, should send their guests to local restaurants with such facilities. Chris says UPS (uninterrupted power supply) can be bought for computers. A unit of R1 400 offers 90 minutes of computer time.  To this can be plugged office essentials such as a portable telephone, ADSL, wireless and the fax machine. The UPS also protects computers against power surges. For nighttime power outages each guest room should be stocked with a candle, matches and a torch.  A special light that goes on when the power is off should also be installed in the entrance hall. Check-ins may be delayed due to guests being stuck in traffic during blackouts, demanding greater flexibility in terms of reception hours. To save electricity, guests should be requested to switch off their air conditioners when leaving their rooms.

Rey Franco, chairman of the restaurant segment, recommends that industry work with Eskom. “Updated load-shedding schedules are available from the Eskom website and Fedhasa will also update members with these schedules. The Eskom website offers electricity conservation tips and we all need to play our part to lessen the frustration of power cuts.”