Maki Molapo26 September 2024 | 6:39

NERSA to decide on Eskom's proposed tariff increase in December

The public has until 1 November 2024 to submit written comments on the matter, which will be followed by public hearings across the nine provinces.

NERSA to decide on Eskom's proposed tariff increase in December

FILE: Eskom's Megawatt Park in Johannesburg. Picture: Eyewitness News

JOHANNESBURG - The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) says its decision on Eskom's proposed tariff increase will be made on 20 December. 

The utility approached the regulator for an application amounting to R446 billion for the 2025/26 financial year - a 36% tariff increase. 

Eskom also proposed an increase of 12% for the 2026/27 financial year, which amounts to R495 billion; and R537 billion for the 2027/29 financial year - which equates to a 9% increase. 

This application, which has attracted opposition from the public and political parties, follows an almost 13% hike this April. 

READ: 36% tariff hike: 'Eskom's punishing the poor for its own failures'

Eskom's application is to retrospectively recover R8 billion rand from the 2022 financial year.

NERSA spokesperson, Charles Hlebela:

"The main drivers of Eskom's application are primary energy, operating costs, Independent Power Producers, international purchases and depreciation." 

The main drivers of Eskom's revenue application are primary energy, operating costs, independent power producers (IPPs), international purchases and depreciation.

Hlebela said the public has a month to submit their written comments, with the closing date being 1 November 2024.

"Stakeholders are requested to comment in writing," he said adding that comments can be sent to:  mypd@nersa.org.za.

This process will be followed by public hearings across nine provinces from 18 November until 4 December before NERSA makes its decision.