Members of the Upington community have expressed their opposition to electricity tariffs. This sentiment comes in the wake of the Swartland municipality's appeal to the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) to dismiss Eskom's proposal for a tariff increase in 2025. The municipality argues that the financial burden of the power utility should not fall on ordinary South Africans. Mr. Thys Möller, the Director of Electrical Engineering Services, warns that a potential increase of up to 43% would exacerbate the financial challenges of local governments. He also cautions that heightened electricity tariffs may trigger social unrest, as the populace is already grappling with economic hardships. These concerns were presented during the recent Nersa public hearings held in Cape Town. Community members have voiced their concerns as follows:

Sound Bite - Tarrifs

Journalist: Tsosangkgotla Mararang
Email: tsosan@radioriverside.co.za