The tariff increase will start from 1 April after the National Energy Regulator (NERSA) approved an average rise of 8.76% for the 2027 financial year, the power utility confirmed in a public statement, reports Cape {town} Etc.
Many households already managing tight budgets will see higher monthly accounts, while municipalities that purchase bulk power will set their own tariffs for residents.
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The utility framed the adjustment as necessary to sustain the grid and maintain supply.
‘We have been clear in communicating that [the utility] is working to ensure that future tariff increase requests remain reasonable, recognising the affordability pressures on both residential and business customers,’ said the utility’s group chief financial officer, Calib Cassim.
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Eskom implements the tariff adjustments that will come into effect for the 2026/27 financial year, following the National Energy Regulator of South Africa’s (NERSA) decision of 5 March 2026. pic.twitter.com/WVlw3Zp4Wx
— Eskom Hld SOC Ltd (@Eskom_SA) March 16, 2026
Community groups we spoke to expressed concern about household budgets and asked for clearer municipal communication on billing changes.
The regulator said the revision supports long-term sustainability of the electricity system and aims to secure investment in generation and distribution.
Customers who buy directly from the utility can view the full tariff schedules and explanatory notes on its website at the link above, and those purchasing via municipalities should await local announcements for exact charges and timelines.
Compiled by Angelica Rhoda
First published on Cape {town} etc
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