12.7% Tariff Hike – From 30 July 2025, Johannesburg households are bracing for a massive surge in their monthly electricity bills as Eskom’s approved tariff hike of 12.74% officially kicks in. The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) approved the increase earlier this year, and the impact is now being felt across the nation, especially in urban hubs like Johannesburg and Tshwane. This comes at a time when inflation is already biting, unemployment remains high, and Eskom continues to battle operational inefficiencies and frequent breakdowns. South African households are not just facing higher power bills – they are also coping with erratic load shedding schedules, aging infrastructure, and limited energy alternatives. The 12.74% increase is part of Eskom’s multi-year price determination plan, aimed at helping the utility recover operational costs and fund critical infrastructure improvements. However, consumer advocacy groups argue that the public is being unfairly burdened while Eskom fails to improve reliability and service delivery. With this increase, an average Johannesburg household using 600kWh/month will now pay approximately R1,850 – up from R1,640. Lower-income users on prepaid or lifeline tariffs are also expected to feel the pressure, despite supposed protections in the block tariff system. Many have raised concerns that the rising costs could push more households into energy poverty. Let’s break down everything you need to know about the 2025 Eskom tariff hike, who it affects, how much more you’ll be paying, and what relief measures are (or aren’t) available.
12.7% Tariff Hike Effective from 30 July 2025
Eskom’s new pricing structure has officially been implemented starting 30 July 2025. The revised rates will affect both urban municipalities and prepaid electricity users.
- NERSA approved a 12.74% average increase for Eskom direct customers
- Municipalities like City Power Johannesburg will implement similar hikes
- Lifeline users also face increases, though at lower percentages
- Additional tariffs apply to business and agricultural sectors
New Monthly Costs for Typical Households
Here’s a snapshot of how the average household’s electricity bill will change post-July:
| Monthly Usage (kWh) | Previous Cost (R) | New Cost (R) | Increase (%) | Monthly Impact (R) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 kWh | 540 | 610 | 12.96% | +70 |
| 400 kWh | 1,070 | 1,205 | 12.61% | +135 |
| 600 kWh | 1,640 | 1,850 | 12.80% | +210 |
| 800 kWh | 2,210 | 2,490 | 12.67% | +280 |
| 1000 kWh | 2,780 | 3,135 | 12.77% | +355 |
| Prepaid 350 kWh | 975 | 1,100 | 12.82% | +125 |
| Lifeline 150 kWh | 320 | 360 | 12.50% | +40 |
What Does This Mean for Johannesburg Households?
This new electricity hike will significantly impact household budgets, particularly those already struggling with food and transport price surges.
- Middle-class families may pay R200–R400 more per month
- Prepaid meter users will need more frequent top-ups
- High-energy appliances (geysers, heaters) now costlier to run
- Older buildings with poor insulation will suffer the most
Effects on Small Businesses and Shops
Small business owners are among the worst affected due to continuous reliance on electricity and backup solutions.
| Business Type | Avg Monthly Usage | Old Bill (R) | New Bill (R) | Monthly Increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Salon | 900 kWh | 2,500 | 2,820 | +320 |
| Bakery | 1,500 kWh | 4,300 | 4,850 | +550 |
| Small Grocery Store | 1,200 kWh | 3,400 | 3,850 | +450 |
| Takeaway Restaurant | 2,000 kWh | 5,800 | 6,540 | +740 |
| Laundry Service | 2,200 kWh | 6,320 | 7,130 | +810 |
| Workshop/Garage | 1,000 kWh | 2,800 | 3,160 | +360 |
| Internet Café | 800 kWh | 2,200 | 2,480 | +280 |
Who Approved the Tariff Hike and Why?
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) approved the increase in January 2025 after Eskom’s application under the Multi-Year Price Determination (MYPD) process. The hike aims to support Eskom’s deteriorating infrastructure and debt servicing obligations.
- Eskom cited a R400 billion debt burden as justification
- Increase is meant to fund grid repairs and power station maintenance
- Public submissions were made, but most were ignored
- The Treasury and Public Enterprises Ministry had limited involvement
Reaction from Civil Society and Unions
The tariff hike has drawn heavy criticism from civil society, opposition parties, and labour unions.
- COSATU labelled the hike “anti-poor” and called for a reversal
- OUTA warned of increased illegal connections and energy theft
- DA Johannesburg demanded emergency relief for middle-income homes
- NGOs called for a temporary suspension of tariff hikes amid high inflation
Alternatives and Energy Saving Tips for Consumers
With electricity prices surging, many households are turning to energy-saving methods and alternative sources.
- Install geyser timers and low-energy light bulbs
- Switch to gas stoves and solar water heaters
- Reduce peak hour usage (6AM–8AM, 6PM–9PM)
- Turn off appliances at the wall, not standby
- Install prepaid meters to monitor and control usage
- Use inverter batteries for lighting instead of generators
Is Solar the Long-Term Answer?
Solar power systems are becoming more viable, especially with loadshedding concerns and rising tariffs.
| Solar System Type | Capacity | Estimated Cost (R) | Monthly Savings (R) | Payback Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Home System | 3kW | 55,000 | 850 | 5.5 years |
| Mid-Size System | 5kW | 90,000 | 1,400 | 5.3 years |
| Full Off-Grid System | 10kW | 160,000 | 2,800 | 4.8 years |
| Solar Geyser | N/A | 18,000 | 300 | 5 years |
| Battery Backup Only | 3kWh | 25,000 | N/A (non-savings) | N/A |
Government’s Role and Municipal Responsibilities
Municipalities like City Power Johannesburg and Tshwane Metro implement Eskom’s pricing with local surcharges and connection fees. Despite this, there has been little public communication or relief plans from local or national government.
- City Power added a 1.2% surcharge on top of Eskom’s increase
- No relief packages or rebates announced for 2025
- Gauteng municipalities blamed national policy and Eskom debt
- Government energy plan for solar rollout still underfunded
Contact Details for Complaints and Queries
Consumers facing billing shocks or errors can reach out to the following departments:
Eskom Direct Customers
- Customer Service: 08600 37566
- Email: [email protected]
- WhatsApp: 060 611 8000
City Power Johannesburg
- Call Centre: 0860 56 28 74
- Email: [email protected]
NERSA (Complaints and Tariff Queries)
- Complaints Email: [email protected]
- Tel: 012 401 4600
- Website: www.nersa.org.za
Gauteng Consumer Affairs
- Tel: 011 355 8000
- Email: [email protected]
What’s Next – Will Prices Keep Rising?
Unfortunately, this may just be the beginning. Eskom has already signaled plans to apply for further increases in 2026 under the next phase of the MYPD cycle. With no major bailout or debt write-off in sight, the pressure may continue to mount on consumers.
- Eskom hinted at additional 9–11% increases next year
- Government has not confirmed a national energy subsidy plan
- Municipalities may raise their surcharges again in early 2026
While energy efficiency and solar investments can reduce long-term bills, millions of households are still exposed to Eskom’s pricing decisions and service reliability issues. South Africans are left questioning when, if ever, power will become affordable again.
The tariff increase from 30 July 2025 is a financial punch for every Johannesburg home, and with no real escape from Eskom’s clutches, energy has officially become a luxury that many can no longer afford.
FAQs on Eskom Tariff Hike 2025
Q1. How much is the electricity tariff increase from 30 July 2025?
The tariff has increased by 12.74% for Eskom direct customers, and similar rates are applied by municipalities.
Q2. Who approved this electricity price hike?
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) approved the hike under Eskom’s multi-year price determination process.
Q3. Will prepaid and lifeline users also be affected?
Yes, prepaid and lifeline users will see increases, although the percentage may be slightly lower for low-usage brackets.
Q4. Can I complain or raise issues about my new bill?
Yes, you can contact Eskom, City Power, or NERSA via their official helplines or email addresses for billing queries.
Q5. Are there any subsidies or relief plans from the government?
As of now, no official subsidies or relief measures have been announced by the government or municipalities for 2025.