NERSA says considered residents, businesses when determining Eskom tariff hike

JOHANNESBURG - The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) said it took the concerns of residents and businesses into account when determining Eskom's electricity prices.  

On Thursday, NERSA announced it had approved a 12.7% tariff hike on electricity, which kicks in on 1 April.  

The approved increase is lower than the 36.15% Eskom had requested.  

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Prior to making the decision, NERSA went on a countrywide public consultation process.  

NERSA chairperson Thembani Bukani said during the public hearings, a lot of concern was raised around the affordability of electricity.  

“The domestic customers stressed the fact that if these prices are approved, they then have to choose between buying food or electricity, whilst businesses on the other side made it clear that if these increases are approved, a lot of them would be forced to close their businesses.”