Eskom wants 36% more

If approved, the utility’s allowable revenue will increase to R445bn in 2025/26.

As it approaches 100 days without load shedding, Eskom is eyeing an average tariff increase of 36% next year. This follows a 12% increase this year, compared to the inflation rate of 5.2%.

This will be part of its sixth multi-year price determination (MYPD6) methodology application for the three years to 30 April, 2028. For the outer years, it will be asking for less - an average increase of almost 12% in 2026-27 and 9% in 2027-28.

This has been disclosed in a draft application that has been circulated to National Treasury and the South African Local Government Association before it is submitted to energy regulator National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa).

Eskom is legally obligated to consult with the two bodies before formally applying to the regulator.

The public will have an opportunity to interrogate the application during a public consultation process once it is on Nersa's desk.

If approved, Eskom's allowable revenue will increase from R335 billion in the current year to R445 billion in 2025-26.

The increase for municipalities will be almost 44%.