Eskom rate hikes

The electricity crisis is an ongoing problem in South Africa, with everyone knowing something dramatic needs to be done but what?

Eskom the country’s main energy supplier has submitted a proposal to the National Energy Regulator (Nersa) in Nelspruit suggesting that for the next 3 years electricity tariffs should be increased by 35% year on year.

While Eskom insists that this is the only solution to the problem and simply must be enforced, the trade union Cosatu, which represents the majority of the public, says that South Africa has a 40% unemployment rate and now these people, who are already struggling are expected to pay for electricity with money they don’t have.

Cosatu feels an increase below the 15% mark is more likely and realistic.

Authorities on the issue are due to meet this week to discuss the problem further and hopefully come up with a more suitable solution.