The City explained that the fixed charge on electricity bills is not unique to Ekurhuleni, with municipalities across South Africa applying similar structures as part of their standard tariffs.

The electricity tariff structure is regulated by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), requiring municipalities to review tariffs annually and conduct a Cost of Supply (CoS) study every five years.

Also read: Calls for accountability over Ekurhuleni electricity blunder

“The latest tariff adjustments are in line with these requirements and reflect the findings of Ekurhuleni’s most recent CoS study,” said CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini.

Two main tariff options for residents

For residential customers, the City offers two main tariff structures:

1. Tariff A: Inclined Block Tariff (IBT)

This is split into two categories:

• Category A1 (Approved Indigent and Deemed Indigent Households):

  • Best suited for low-consumption households.

  • Customers receive 50kWh of free basic electricity (FBE) per month.

  • No basic monthly charge applies.

• Category A2 (Non-Indigent, Low Consumption Customers):

  • Does not include free basic electricity.

  • A basic monthly charge will apply for the 2025/26 financial year:

    • Single-phase supply: R109.78 per month

    • Three-phase supply: R203.89 per month

The City explained that this basic charge assists in recovering the costs of distributing electricity, maintaining infrastructure, and ensuring ongoing repairs.

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2. Tariff B: Residential

This option is suitable for medium to high consumption households and has been in place since 2018. It also includes a monthly basic charge:

• Single-phase supply: R109.78 per month

• Three-phase supply: R203.89 per month

Residents encouraged to apply for indigent support

Customers can choose the tariff option that best suits their consumption patterns but are required to remain on the selected tariff for a minimum of 12 months before switching.

The City urged qualifying residents to apply for the indigent social package to benefit from subsidies and free basic electricity under Category A1.

Keeping increases reasonable while ensuring reliability

“In setting tariffs for the new financial year, the City considered all factors within its control and aimed to keep increases reasonable and affordable while ensuring a continued and reliable electricity supply to residents.”

“We remain committed to transparency, regulatory compliance, and serving the best interests of our community,” said Dlamini.

For further details on the City’s electricity tariffs, residents are encouraged to visit the City of Ekurhuleni’s official website or contact their nearest customer care centre.