New Ekurhuleni tariffs took effect on July 1
Water, electricity, sanitation, refuse removal and property rates have all increased. Here's a breakdown of the new tariffs and what they mean for residents and businesses.
The City of Ekurhuleni’s newly approved municipal tariffs for the 2026/27 financial year came into effect on July 1.
The tariff adjustments form part of the city’s R70.9b, which was finally approved by council last month after several unsuccessful attempts.
According to the metro, following public consultation and consideration of affordability concerns raised during the process, the city approved the following tariff increases:
- Property rates: 1.5%
Water: 11%
Sanitation: 8.35%
Refuse removal: 3.4% for both domestic and business customers
Burial and cemetery tariffs: 0% for City of Ekurhuleni residents and 3.4% for non-residents
Electricity: 8.76%, in line with the tariff increase approved by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA)
The metro said this budget is designed to strengthen service delivery, improve infrastructure maintenance, support the city’s financial sustainability, and ensure the continued provision of quality and sustainable municipal services to communities and businesses across Ekurhuleni.
The city stated the budget reflects its commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive and well-functioning municipality while balancing the need to maintain essential services with the financial realities faced by residents and businesses.
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It added that every effort had been made to keep tariff increases as moderate as possible without compromising the maintenance and upgrading of critical infrastructure.
Qualifying residents are encouraged to apply for available indigent support and debt rehabilitation incentives where applicable.
The city also urged residents and businesses to continue paying for municipal services, noting that municipal revenue is essential for sustaining service delivery, maintaining infrastructure and ensuring the city’s long-term financial stability.
The city said it remains committed to the responsible and effective use of public funds.
“The adoption of the 2026/27 budget marks the start of a new implementation phase focused on improved service delivery, accountability and building an Ekurhuleni that works for all,” said the city.
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