National Energy Regulator of SA (Nersa) has opened public consultations on a 38.10% electricity tariff increase proposed by Eskom for the 2023/24 financial year.

Nersa recently published that this tariff could increase starting next April.

“Eskom’s revenue application amounts to R335-billion for the 2023/24 financial year,” the regulator said.

It said Eskom claimed the main drivers of the increase were operating costs and depreciation of assets.

Nersa has previously approved tariff increases lower than what Eskom had asked for. Earlier this year, Nersa approved a 9.61% instead of 20.5%.

Previously, Nersa spokesperson Charles Hlebela said they approved a lower increase after more than 60 000 citizens raised affordability concerns.

“Accordingly, Nersa’s decision provides a balance between the sustainability of Eskom and the economic well-being of the consumers and the economy.”

Eskom’s proposed double-digit increase comes against a backdrop of electricity consumers in Pretoria complaining about unbearably high bills.

“We cannot afford to live anymore.” This is how Pretoria residents reacted to the 7.4% electricity tariff increase implemented in July.

Local resident Heather Liebenberg said her electricity bill went up by R800 “despite having regular power outages and load-shedding”.

She said turning off electrical devices such as the pool pump, not using the oven and only switching the geysers on for a few hours, did not lower her bill noticeably.

“I cannot do this anymore,” Liebenberg said.

“A month’s household budget is finished in two weeks, no treats or waste. We cannot pay all our bills anymore. Yet they keep increasing electricity.”

The public has until September 8 to comment on the electricity increase and Nersa will decide by November 7.

Comments must be submitted to mypd@nersa.org.za.