NERSA error supercharges electricity price hikes to 8.7% in 2026 and 8.8% in 2027

The latest electricity hike increase from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) has left many South Africans reeling.

The regulator has given Eskom the green light to recover an additional R54.7 billion in revenue over the next two financial years.

This is in a bid to correct an error made by Nersa, which led to an alleged R107 billion shortfall.

This will result in an 8.7% increase for the 2026/27 financial year and a further 8.8% increase for the year after.

The increases initially announced were 5.36% and 6.19% for the respective periods.

The amended increases will take effect on 1 April for those buying electricity directly from Eskom and on 1 July for municipal customers.

Power and energy expert and former executive manager of Eskom, Professor Vally Padayachee, argued that this will have a devastating impact on low-income households and businesses.

He explained that the error was not just a simple mistake, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability.

“They should not be making these mistakes, and it is not the first time, and unfortunately, the result is that the end customers are bearing the brunt of it.”

To listen to Padayachee in conversation with CapeTalk’s Clarence Ford, use the audio player below: