Eskom has welcomed the tariff hike approved by the national energy regulator, NERSA.

The utility’s Chief Financial Officer, Calib Cassim, says that the increase of 18.65% will help Eskom’s finances and sustainability.

The utility has however, acknowledged its poor performance, saying that it’s linked to the shortage of capacity and the delays in the Independent Power Producers projects. 

Meanwhile…

The tariff and subsequent electricity price increases cannot be blamed on the NERSA.

The South African Federation of Trade Unions’ spokesperson, Trevor Shaku contends that the blame should be laid on government.

He says that the State has failed to manage and properly address the country’s energy crisis.

One of the main concerns is the debt incurred during the construction of the Medupi and Kusile power stations.

Both have seen cost overruns due to corruption, which has placed further strain on Eskom to cover the costs.