Petition against Eskom’s 8.83% tariff hike passes 5 700 signatures as public hearing looms
The petition, addressed to Nersa, called on the regulator to reject Eskom's proposed increase outright.
A petition against Eskom's planned 2027-28 electricity price increase has gathered close to 5,800 signatures ahead of a public hearing with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa). The Better Governance Initiative (BGI) spearheaded the petition, calling on Nersa to reject the 8.83% tariff hike for the financial year.
The drive began with just over 2,000 signatures but surged as public frustration grew about the proposed hike. BGI founder Sabelo Chalufu said the public participation process was crucial for residents to voice their concerns before Nersa made a final decision on the matter. The petition highlighted that electricity prices have risen 937% between 2007 and 2024, while inflation has only increased by 155% over the same period.
Chalufu acknowledged that Eskom had recently posted a profitable year, but argued that South African consumers were still struggling with unemployment, poverty, and high levels of debt, making them unable to absorb another increase.
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