Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa Assures South Africans That the 36% Electricity Tariff Hike Will Not Be Implemented This Year

In a much-needed assurance to struggling South Africans, the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr.

Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, confirmed that there will not be a 36% electricity tariff hike later this year.

This comes as a relief to many, as the country has been grappling with rising costs in several sectors.

No Need to Worry About the 36% Hike

Speaking during the second day of the African National Congress (ANC) National Executive Committee (NEC) lekgotla in Boksburg, East of Johannesburg, Ramokgopa assured the public that the steep hike would not happen.

He acknowledged that South Africans are facing financial strain and emphasized that the government is working on more sustainable solutions.

The minister mentioned that while the country faces energy challenges, there are efforts underway to explore a more affordable energy mix, which could help lower the cost of electricity production.

His comments were made with the intention of offering some hope to both households and businesses who have been struggling with high electricity prices.

Struggles of Businesses and the Average Person

Ramokgopa also highlighted the concerns raised by businesspeople at the World Economic Forum (WEF) regarding the cost of electricity in South Africa.

According to the minister, electricity has become a significant burden for both individuals and businesses, making it harder for businesses to remain competitive.

“It’s expensive for the average person, and very expensive for business.

It makes their products uncompetitive,” Ramokgopa explained.

He added that the government is focused on finding ways to ensure that electricity will be affordable in the future.

Positive Outlook for Future Tariffs

Despite the challenges, the minister expressed confidence that the steep tariff hikes seen in recent years cannot continue.

He reassured the public that the proposed 36% increase will not come into effect, citing the work done with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) to suggest that any future tariff hikes will be far lower.

“I am confident that we will not see those proportions of increases,” he said, referring to the 36% hike.

Ramokgopa’s statement offers some reassurance to citizens who were worried about the increasing cost of electricity.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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