Technical glitch inflates electricity charges in Alberton

Alberton residents are frustrated after noticing a sudden and unexplained increase in prepaid electricity charges on July 1, following the new tariff period.

According to Izak Berg of the Independent Ratepayers Association of South Africa (IRASA), a technical error in the applied tariffs led to some customers being overcharged.

“The CoE has acknowledged that some customers experienced a slight increase in electricity charges on July 1 due to a technical error in the applied tariffs. The city has apologised for any inconvenience caused and confirmed the issue has been corrected,” said Berg.

Berg confirmed that residents can again buy electricity and that a refund process is in place for those affected.

Residents should not panic and can visit the Department of Energy in Alberton at the Sanlam Centre on Swartkoppies Road, Randhart. Refunds will be issued in kWh, not cash, and residents must take their meter numbers.

Berg also told the Alberton Record that IRASA is disputing the fixed monthly charge for Tariff A, which increased to R126.25. Tariff B now costs R234.47, a sharp jump from the previous R70 to R80.

He said a meeting is underway to address these concerns.

Many residents are unhappy with how the city handled the matter.

“We were supposed to get communication and be informed of this. I bought electricity not knowing there was something wrong with the tariffs. I was so confused when I didn’t get the same units as last month,” said Cindy Mbewana.

Belinda le Roux added, “Where is one supposed to find time to do this? After all, it was their fault, and now we have to stand in a queue for them to fix a mistake they made. What about the people who don’t have the means to get there?”

The city’s new electricity tariffs officially took effect on July 1 and remain in place until June 30, 2026.

Residents can find more information under the tariffs section on the city’s website.