Nersa announces public consultation on Eskom’s 36% tariff hike request

VAAL TRIANGLE - The National Energy Regulator of South Africa has officially published Eskom's controversial request for a 36% electricity tariff hike starting next year. The DA is opposing this application and calling for its rejection. Public submissions on the proposal are open until 1 November, with public hearings scheduled from 18 November to 4 December. The power utility seeks a total revenue increase of R446-billion for 2026, with further hikes planned for 2027 and 2028, potentially reaching R1-trillion.

Meanwhile, Eskom says it continues to provide reliable electricity services while improving its financial sustainability, through a migration to cost-reflective prices. Eskom’s application to Nersa proposes a 36.15% hike during its 2026 financial year; 11.81% in 2027 and 9.10% in 2028. Eskom’s spokesperson, Daphne Mokwena, says its revenue application is based on the costs it will incur to provide electricity to customers efficiently.