SAns urged to comment on NERSA's erronous R76bn tariff hike for Eskom

Energy producer IMPOWER Solar is urging South Africans to take part and submit comments on the National Energy Regulator's (NERSA) proposed R76 billion tariff hike for Eskom.
 
NERSA has initiated a public comment period asking the public to provide input regarding Eskom's application for additional revenue.
 
The energy regulator admitted to a massive calculation error relating to the valuation of Eskom's hardware and profit allocation.
 
NERSA wants consumers to foot the bill for this shortfall, which could see a 10% increase in electricity costs for the consumer.
 
Energy expert Matthew Cruise warns that these continuous hikes risk further straining the national economy.
 
“With the Electricity Minister specifically saying that already citizens are forced to choose between eating or buying electricity. So, we are seeing a trend where the regulator seems to struggle with its core mandate which is ensuring electricity remains affordable while holding the utility accountable for cost management. 

“When major industrial players or specific sectors receive tariff relief, that revenue shortfall will be recouped from other businesses and households as Eskom applies for a specific amount of revenue that they should be allowed."
 
The deadline for public commentary is 21 January, and a final decision is expected by 30 January.