SAFCEI Submits Comments on Eskom’s Proposed 8.83% Tariff Increase

SAFCEI has submitted formal comments to the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) on Eskom’s proposed 8.83% average standard tariff increase for 2027/28.

In its submission, SAFCEI raises concerns about the proposed shift towards higher fixed service and network charges, arguing that this could place a disproportionate burden on low-income and low-consumption households, deepen energy poverty and undermine incentives for energy efficiency and renewable energy.

SAFCEI also calls for greater transparency in the proposed tariff structure and cautions against major structural changes before the relevant wholesale electricity market rules have been finalised.

The submission calls on NERSA to consider the affordability impacts of the proposed increase and to strengthen protections for vulnerable consumers. Among its recommendations, SAFCEI calls for a cap on fixed charges, retention of inclining block tariffs until effective energy poverty measures are in place, and an urgent review of Free Basic Electricity thresholds.

Read SAFCEI’s full submission to NERSA [PDF]