The Democratic Alliance (DA) will on Wednesday hold a National Day of Action across all nine provinces, to oppose Eskom’s request for a 36% electricity tariff increase.

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) will decide whether to approve the request, which would then take effect from April 1, 2025.

DA Electricity and Energy spokesperson Kevin Mileham said the party’s mass action is being organised ahead of an urgent Parliamentary debate scheduled for Thursday, where the DA will formally oppose what it calls “Eskom’s exorbitant demands”.

Mileham said Eskom’s increases over the years have placed unbearable financial strain on South African households and businesses.

“The DA is resolute in its opposition to these extortionate increases, which threaten the livelihood of millions of South Africans, forcing them to choose between keeping the lights on or putting food on the table,” he said.

The City of Cape Town and Tshwane have also written to Nersa, formally objecting to the proposed tariff increases.

“Together, we can prevent this reckless increase that will further devastate South African families and businesses,” Mileham said.