The power utility says the delayed implementation of SA's renewable energy programme means its under pressure to increase its generation capacity. If the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) approves the proposal, the hike will take effect on  July 1 2025.

The SA Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) has vehemently opposed the move, warning that it will further exacerbate the cost of living crisis.

SAFTU's Spokesperson, Trevor Shaku,” Our worry is that if the arbitration the ones made to approve that by NERSA, it is going to exacerbate the cost of living which is already at a crisis level whereby many households cannot afford.

And this is reflected in the fact that consumer confidence has gone down. Two, we are also faced with interest rates that have gone up, we are faced with fuel prices that have gone up and many other utilities that make the household survive on a day to day basis.

--ChannelAfrica--