Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
28 January 2025 | 12:45 CAT

Green Connection advocates for affordable and accessible electricity as NERSA reviews Eskom’s latest tariff proposal.

South Africans continue to grapple with rising electricity costs, as the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) holds public hearings on Eskom’s latest tariff proposal. Amid growing frustration over affordability, The Green Connection, an environmental advocacy group, has emphasized the critical link between accessible electricity and fundamental human rights.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, Liz McDaid, Strategic Lead at The Green Connection, criticized NERSA’s reactive stance, stating, “NERSA is meant to act in the public interest by ensuring affordable electricity, yet we find ourselves merely responding to Eskom’s pricing structures rather than shaping an inclusive, sustainable model.”

McDaid highlighted the lack of a comprehensive tariff structure that accounts for social and economic realities. She questioned why there is no open dialogue involving all stakeholders to determine how tariffs should be structured to benefit the majority. “We should be discussing measures like peak-hour pricing to influence consumption patterns or incentives for solar energy users feeding into the grid. Instead, Eskom’s approach prioritizes fixed costs, limiting consumer choice and making electricity even less accessible,” she said.

The rising cost of electricity is a growing burden for households and small businesses. McDaid emphasized that “electricity should be an enabler for economic growth, not a barrier. Small businesses rely on affordable energy to operate, and students need stable electricity to study.”

South Africa’s outdated electricity pricing system also came under scrutiny, with McDade pointing out how other countries have adapted. “In some places, if a power outage ruins your food while cooking, your provider compensates you. Consumers even have the choice of selecting providers based on reliability and sustainability,” she noted.

McDaid further stressed the need for municipalities to rethink their approach. She suggested, “Imagine if municipalities installed solar panels on RDP housing rooftops, allowing residents to benefit from free electricity while feeding surplus power into the grid. This model exists elsewhere and could alleviate some of our energy challenges.”

The Green Connection is calling on the new Minister of Electricity and NERSA to launch an inclusive national consultation to explore innovative and consumer-friendly energy solutions. “We need a platform where all voices are heard, where sustainable, equitable solutions are developed—not just reactive price hikes,” McDaid concluded.

With South Africans facing yet another proposed tariff increase, the call for systemic reform grows louder.

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and Green Connection’s Strategic Lead, Liz McDaid, here.