▶️ the original statement was first posted by ©️ Cry of the Xcluded
Summary by Vuka.news:
Opposition to Eskom’s Tariff Hikes
- Tariff Increase Details:
- 36% increase for direct customers in the coming financial year.
- Additional increases of 12% in 2027 and 9% in 2028.
- These hikes threaten millions of South Africans’ livelihoods.
Structural Problems at Eskom
- Eskom’s full cost recovery model and user-pays principle operate like a private company, not a public utility.
- The Electricity Regulation Act demands cost-reflective tariffs, ensuring private investment but excluding the majority from affordable electricity.
Impact on South Africans
- South Africa’s extreme inequality means:
- Millions lack stable income, surviving on informal or unstable jobs.
- Rising tariffs deepen energy poverty and force families to choose between electricity and food.
- Current reliance on private energy markets prioritizes profits over essential needs.
Failure of Free Basic Electricity (FBE)
- FBE provides only 50 kWh per month, far below the needed 350 kWh for a decent standard of living.
- Many eligible households are excluded due to municipal disincentives to register them.
Call for Change
- Government Action Needed:
- Fix Eskom and halt electricity privatisation.
- Enforce transparency and accountability in Eskom’s operations.
- Provide universal 350 kWh of free electricity per month.
- Invest in renewable energy and local manufacturing.
- Public Demand:
- Prioritise people over profits.
- Pursue sustainable energy solutions that do not burden the vulnerable.
For more information contact:
- Motsi Khokhoma, Cry of the Xcluded Coordinator: 073 490 7623
- Matthews Hlabane, Cry of the Xcluded Coordinator: 082 707 9860
