Tshwane and Joburg Electricity – As of 10 July 2025, electricity consumers in both Tshwane and Johannesburg are facing a significant increase in their monthly electricity expenses. The latest tariff hikes have pushed electricity costs to over R2.85 per unit, affecting both prepaid and conventional postpaid users. With the increase now in effect, many households are already starting to feel the financial pressure. The new pricing follows municipal tariff adjustments aligned with NERSA’s approved rates for the 2025/2026 financial year. These revised tariffs aim to help municipalities manage rising energy procurement costs, infrastructure maintenance, and debt to Eskom. However, for everyday South Africans, this change comes at a challenging time—especially with concurrent increases in food, water, petrol, and municipal bills. Residents in both metros are advised to adjust their household budgets and consider energy-saving strategies immediately. The new electricity prices are part of the broader annual municipal price increases approved in June. While the adjustments vary slightly between Johannesburg and Tshwane, both cities have confirmed that most consumers, especially those on prepaid meters, will now pay well above R2.85 per kWh. This has led to growing concern among low-income households and working-class residents who are already stretched thin financially. Below, we break down everything you need to know about the new electricity tariffs in Tshwane and Johannesburg, how much more you’ll pay, who is most affected, and how you can manage your consumption under the new structure.
Tshwane and Joburg Electricity Tariffs from 10 July 2025
The City of Tshwane has implemented new electricity tariffs that have raised the cost per kWh for most prepaid and postpaid customers. Here’s what you need to know:
- All tariffs increased by an average of 12.7%
- Prepaid customers now pay above R2.85/unit on the first block
- Inclining block tariff still applies
- Additional charges apply for high usage brackets
Tshwane 2025 Tariff Table (Incl. VAT)
| Usage Block (kWh) | Tariff (R/unit) | Change from 2024 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 – 50 kWh | R2.85 | +R0.30 | Lifeline tariff, limited access |
| 51 – 350 kWh | R3.15 | +R0.35 | Moderate household usage |
| 351 – 600 kWh | R3.65 | +R0.40 | Middle-class usage bracket |
| 601 – 1000 kWh | R4.05 | +R0.45 | Higher usage households |
| Above 1000 kWh | R4.60 | +R0.55 | Heavy users, no subsidy |
| Fixed Basic Charge | R150/month | No Change | Still applies to postpaid only |
| Prepaid Service Charge | R70/month | Introduced 2025 | New prepaid admin fee |
| Disconnection Fee | R750 | No Change | Payable upon reconnection |
Tshwane and Joburg Electricity Tariffs as of July 2025
Johannesburg has also implemented new tariffs through City Power. These rates apply across residential, prepaid, and business users, with sharp increases for mid-to-high consumption households.
- Prepaid meter users will see steep hikes beyond 350kWh
- Flat-rate customers on legacy systems also affected
- Monthly fixed charges introduced for some blocks
City Power Johannesburg 2025 Tariff Table
| Usage Block (kWh) | Tariff (R/unit) | Increase (YoY) | Service Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 – 350 kWh | R2.88 | +11% | Prepaid |
| 351 – 500 kWh | R3.42 | +13% | Inclining block |
| 501 – 800 kWh | R3.95 | +14% | Residential usage |
| 801 – 1000 kWh | R4.40 | +16% | Upper-middle usage |
| Above 1000 kWh | R4.90 | +17% | Heavy households |
| Prepaid Admin Charge | R65/month | New | Applies to all tokens |
| Postpaid Fixed Charge | R180/month | +R20 | Metered users only |
| Emergency Disconnection | R850 | No Change | Technical visits |
Impact on Low-Income and Prepaid Users
The sharpest increases affect consumers using between 300 to 800kWh per month—mainly lower-middle income households and large families.
- Low-income households lose access to previous Free Basic Electricity (FBE)
- Prepaid tokens now yield fewer units for same spend
- Township users already report 20–30% faster token depletion
Immediate Effects on Residents
- R200 token now buys only ~70kWh (was ~85kWh)
- Budgeting for winter power use now requires ~R900/month
- Daily energy usage must be tracked closely to avoid early depletion
How to Save Under the New Tariff System
With the cost per unit crossing R2.85, it’s essential to cut down wastage and implement cost-saving methods:
- Switch to energy-efficient bulbs and appliances
- Use geyser timers or install solar water heating
- Reduce use of high-power devices (heaters, irons) during peak times
- Monitor daily unit usage with prepaid meter tools
Budget-Saving Tips for Electricity in 2025
| Tip | Estimated Savings | Implementation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| LED bulbs (whole house) | R80–R150/month | R250–R400 once-off |
| Geyser timer (3 hrs/day) | R120/month | R300–R600 once-off |
| Prepaid usage monitoring | R60–R100/month | Free via app |
| Switch to gas cooking | R90/month | Medium initial cost |
| Solar panel for TV/lights | R200/month | R2,000+ investment |
Hike Justification by Municipalities
According to both Tshwane and Joburg councils, these increases are needed to:
- Settle outstanding Eskom debt
- Fund infrastructure upgrades and smart meter rollouts
- Cover energy purchase costs due to load shedding and supply risks
National Energy Regulator (NERSA) Statement
- NERSA approved municipal increases of up to 12.7% for 2025/26
- Tariffs reviewed annually based on municipal revenue needs
- Encouraged municipalities to implement equitable lifeline tariffs where possible
The latest electricity tariff hikes in Tshwane and Johannesburg are already straining household budgets, especially for those relying on prepaid systems. While municipalities defend the increases as necessary for sustainability, residents are urged to take proactive steps to manage energy use. With further hikes likely in 2026, adapting now is essential to surviving the cost-of-living crisis.
FAQs of Tshwane and Joburg Electricity
Q1: Why did my prepaid units drop compared to June?
A: The tariff hike from 10 July 2025 means each rand now buys fewer kWh units. For example, R200 gets you 70kWh instead of 85kWh.
Q2: Is the Free Basic Electricity (FBE) still available?
A: Most municipalities have reduced or removed FBE allocations. Only a few indigent users still receive free units after registration.
Q3: Can I change to a different tariff plan or block?
A: In most metros, you are auto-assigned based on meter type and usage. Some areas allow application for a fixed or time-of-use tariff.
Q4: Is solar a good option now?
A: Yes, solar is becoming more viable with rising tariffs. Even small setups can reduce grid usage and save you money.
Q5: What if I can’t afford the electricity increases?
A: Municipal indigent support programs are available. You may qualify for discounted or free units if you earn below the income threshold.