Residents oppose tariff hikes by Eskom

Soweto residents and environmental organisation Earthlife Africa have joined forces to oppose Eskom’s proposed 36% electricity tariff increase at Uncle Toms Hall in Orlando West, on December 3.

The group staged a peaceful demonstration during Nersa’s hearings, calling on the regulator to reject the ‘unaffordable proposal’.

Ketshepaone Modise from Earthlife Africa emphasised, “The tariff hike is a direct attack on poor and working-class South Africans.”

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The organisation argues the increase contradicts South Africa’s commitments to a just energy transition and fails to address alleged corruption and mismanagement at Eskom.

“This tariff hike is unjust and regressive,” said Modise.

“Nersa must reject it and instead push Eskom to embrace a future built on energy justice and sustainability.

“We must prioritise marginalised communities and invest in community-owned renewable energy projects.”

The proposed tariff hike has sparked widespread concern among Soweto residents who are struggling to make ends meet.

Many households rely on electricity for basic needs like cooking, heating, and lighting, and the increased cost would be a significant burden.

“Electricity is becoming a luxury instead of a basic right for millions of South Africans.

“The Eskom proposed tariff hike could be the tipping point for households grappling with high unemployment, stagnant wages, and soaring living costs,” said Modise.

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The demonstrators also highlighted the urgent need for transparency and accountability from Eskom.

They demanded clear, equitable plans for infrastructure investment that prioritise vulnerable communities.

“Eskom’s lack of transparency and accountability is unacceptable,” said Modise.

“We need to know how they spend our money and what plans are in place to address the energy crisis. It is time for Eskom to prioritise the needs of the people, not just its interests.”

The protest was part of a broader campaign to oppose the tariff hike and promote a more just and sustainable energy system.

Earthlife Africa and other organisations are calling on Nersa to reject the proposed tariff increase and instead work towards a more equitable and sustainable energy future.

As the regulator considers Eskom’s proposal, the fate of millions of South Africans hangs in the balance.