Eskom tariff hike sparks affordability fears among households and fishers

At a virtual public hearing convened by NERSA, struggling households and small-scale fishers challenged Eskom’s proposed tariff increases and called for closer scrutiny of its costs. Lisa Makaula, advocacy lead at the eco-justice organisation Green Connection, warned that the proposed 8.83% increase for 2027/28 was particularly concerning after an 8.76% increase was approved for 2026/27. She said families may have to choose between electricity and other basic needs amid unemployment and rising living costs. Makaula also urged NERSA to extend public participation, arguing that one day of hearings is insufficient.