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The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Western Cape would like to thank residents of the Province for taking a stand against Eskom’s proposed 36.15% electricity tariff hike by participating in NERSA’s public hearings on the 18th and 19th of November. Your voices are crucial in resisting this unaffordable increase, which will place an overwhelming burden on both residents and municipalities.

NERSA has already approved a 4% increase to allow Eskom to recover an additional R8 billion from consumers. If the additional 36.15% hike is approved, households will face a devastating total increase of over 40%. This will force millions of South Africans to choose between powering their homes and putting food on the table.

Municipalities across South Africa simply cannot implement such exorbitant hikes. Local governments are already struggling to balance affordability with service delivery. Passing these increases on to residents will undermine their ability to support communities and provide the essential services they rely on.

MPP Dave Bryant said: A 40% increase will cripple households already battling to make ends meet and push many deeper into financial despair. We must hold Eskom accountable and ensure affordable electricity for everyone.

If you haven’t been able to attend the public hearings, there is still time to make your voice heard by signing our petition at www.stoppowergrab.da.org.za

The DA remains committed to fighting for affordable electricity and protecting residents from the consequences of Eskom’s mismanagement."

Issued by Dave Bryant, MPP - DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning