Mme Martha Mokate at Earthlife Africa’s Just Transition Dialogues (15 November 2021)
On 17 January 2022, the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) kicked-off its public hearings on Eskom’s Fifth Multi-Year Price Determination (MYPD5) revenue application for the 2022/23 financial year. Earthlife Africa Johannesburg and others were there to call on the Regulator to reject Eskom’s request for a 20.5% increase in electricity tariffs, due to the crippling impact it will have on citizens.
Commenting on the actual proceedings, Earthlife Africa’s Ulrich Steenkamp says, “Nersa must do better. This year’s hearings were a shambles and many of those who registered to present in the different provinces, were unable to do so. This entire process needs an overhaul. Furthermore, we feel like parrots, coming here year after year to voice our concerns, but then Nersa always ends up giving Eskom the increases they ask for. Why is it that the people’s voice has no power here? The more we tell you that we cannot survive these unprecedented increases, coupled with poor service delivery, the more we are ignored.”
Steenkamp, who is also a member of the Climate Justice Action Group (CJAG), says that there are so many unanswered questions, which should factor into Nersa’s decision. Is Nersa accounting for any financial losses that resulted from the corruption and fraud at Eskom? How is Eskom being held accountable for its transgressions? Considering its track record, is there any way Eskom can justify yet another price hike? If Eskom gets this increase, what chance are you giving communities who are already struggling? Why does Eskom continue to choose expensive generations options, such as coal, nuclear, and gas when there are cheaper alternatives like solar and wind?
Community activist with the Women in Energy and Climate Change Forum (WECCF) Ntombizodwa Rannyadi says, “Since 2009, Soweto residents have been asking for flat rates for electricity. It is not that we do not wish to pay, but the reality is, we cannot afford prepaid electricity, which increases in cost every year. Even the middle class and businesses cannot afford the current electricity hikes. Where are we, as unemployed citizens of South Africa, supposed to get the money? We cannot live without electricity, but South Africa’s electricity is also costing us our lives – be it economic or health. South Africa’s citizens have had just about enough with Eskom’s dirty and expensive electricity, while our people are having to choose between buying food for their babies or buying electricity. This is unacceptable and should Eskom get the increase, should be seen as unconstitutional.”
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