Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
23 August 2024 | 15:45 CAT

The DA has asked Nersa to reject Eskom’s 36% tariff increase. (Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

The Democratic Alliance (DA) says the debate on Eskom’s proposed 36% electricity tariff increase should happen soon and before the growth occurs. There is outrage across the country about the proposed steep increase.

Kevin Mileham, the party’s energy spokesperson, has underscored the potential impact of the proposed almost 40% increase on ordinary South Africans. He emphasizes that this is a matter of great concern.

This debate is particularly crucial in light of Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa’s recent statement acknowledging the need to review the high electricity prices.

Mileham said the combined increase would force consumers who spent R900 monthly on electricity to pay R1,260.

“With the ever-increasing cost of living, double-digit tariff increases will keep inflationary pressures high and force consumers to choose between keeping the lights on or putting food on the table,” he says.

While the DA said the debate on the proposed tariff increase might not stop the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) from approving Eskom’s proposed increase, it would highlight the impact of such an increase on consumers.

Mileham said the debate was to bring the matter to Ramokgopa’s attention.

“It’s less about making an impact on NERSA and more about highlighting and bringing it to the minister’s attention because Minister Ramokgopa a couple of weeks ago said electricity pricing would be reviewed.”

The actual debate will be scheduled once the programme committee meets on Thursday and will likely occur sometime next week.

You can listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Kevin Mileham, the DA’s energy spokesperson, here.