 | Drakenstein Municipality Executive Mayor objects to Eskom’s proposed 40% electricity price hike
19 August 2024 | Press Releases |
19 August 2024
Councillor Stephen Korabie, Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality, has written to the board of the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) to formally object to Eskom's proposed electricity price hike of an enormous 40%.
The Executive Mayor said: “We understand the need to ensure the financial sustainability of Eskom, but we cannot accept the disproportionate burden placed on our residents, many of whom are already struggling to make ends meet."
Writing on behalf of all the residents of Drakenstein, he pointed out that the proposed increase would have a devastating impact on low-income households, which would be forced to choose between necessities and electricity. The same goes for local businesses, which would face increased operational costs and potential job losses.
Last but not least, it would impact on the Municipality's own ability to deliver essential services and drive economic growth.
“We urge NERSA to consider alternative solutions that balance Eskom's needs with the socio-economic realities of our community. We request a fair and equitable pricing structure that considers the economic constraints of our residents," the Executive Mayor concluded his letter, dated 14 August 2024.
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Issued by: Communication and Marketing, Drakenstein Municipality
