South Africans will soon have to pay even more for electricity.
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) granted Eskom a 9,61% tariff hike on Thursday (24/02).
The tariff increase for Eskom customers is set to take effect on 1 April, while municipal customers’ increase will be effective from 1 July.
Eskom requested an increase of 20,5%, citing increased purchases of energy from independent power producers and the increase in carbon taxes.
This increase is part of Eskom’s fifth Multi-Year Price Determination revenue application for 2023 to 2025.
Eskom also applied for tariff hikes of 15% and 10% for 2024 and 2025, respectively.
Last year Eskom was granted a tariff increase of 15%.
According to the South African Local Government Association, electricity tariff hikes have risen by 307% over the past 13 years.
- The agricultural sector has publicly opposed Eskom’s tariff hike, arguing that it will have a devastating impact on a sector that is already under pressure due to an increase in taxes, minimum wages and input costs.
The agricultural sector further lamented that Eskom’s constant loadshedding has already had a debilitating effect on the country’s ability to address food security and curb unemployment.
Electricity tariff hikes have risen by 307% over the past 13 years
