Dr. Ramokgopa Pledges to Address Rising Electricity Costs with SALGA and Municipalities

The Minister also addressed concerns related to recent municipal initiatives, such as the controversial "surcharge" or network fee, which has faced backlash from communities.

Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has assured South Africans of the department's commitment to addressing the escalating cost of electricity. Speaking at a media briefing on Monday, Ramokgopa emphasized that the department, along with the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and municipalities, is focused on finding a sustainable solution to the issue.

Ramokgopa acknowledged the significant rise in electricity costs and outlined that the ministry's primary focus is implementing an effective electricity pricing plan in collaboration with Eskom, municipalities, and SALGA.

The Minister also addressed concerns related to recent municipal initiatives, such as the controversial "surcharge" or network fee, which has faced backlash from communities. He stressed that while the specifics of the R200 surcharge will not be debated publicly, the goal is to develop a more comprehensive and lasting solution to the problem.

"Discussions with SALGA started during the previous administration, and there is a mutual understanding of the need for collective action," Ramokgopa said. "We recognize that the current situation is untenable, with increasing community frustration and financial strain on households."

Ramokgopa emphasized the importance of working with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) to ensure fair and balanced tariff structures. He outlined that Nersa's role is crucial in protecting consumer interests and scrutinizing proposed tariff increases from Eskom and municipalities.

"We will collaborate with Nersa to establish a framework that safeguards the needs of the poor and marginalized, while also ensuring that pricing does not become prohibitively expensive for others. Our aim is to maintain affordability and competitiveness for all stakeholders," he stated.

The Minister affirmed the department's commitment to working closely with municipalities to resolve these challenges, acknowledging the difficulties faced by local authorities and expressing a determination to address the issue effectively.