Electricity Tariff Hike – From August 15, 2025, electricity users across South Africa will feel the pinch as new, higher electricity tariffs come into effect. Eskom’s latest increase, approved by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), is set to affect households and businesses alike. With inflation, rising operational costs, and infrastructure needs being cited as key drivers behind the hike, consumers must now prepare for increased bills and tighter monthly budgets. The increase will not be uniform across all provinces—some will feel the impact harder than others, depending on their consumption levels and municipal mark-ups. For millions of South Africans already battling the rising cost of living, this development adds yet another strain on household finances. The National Treasury and Eskom have justified this price hike as necessary to sustain power supply and address maintenance backlogs, but critics warn that low-income households will bear the brunt. Whether you’re a prepaid or postpaid user, understanding the actual impact on your province is essential to adjust your usage and avoid nasty surprises on your next bill. Let’s dive into the specifics—who pays how much, and what you can do to manage your energy costs in this new reality.
Electricity Tariff Hike from August 15: Here’s What You’re Paying Now
The new tariffs are based on user category, provincial mark-ups, and monthly consumption levels. Below are the revised average residential tariffs effective from August 15, 2025.
- Tariffs vary between municipalities due to distribution charges
- Both prepaid and postpaid customers are impacted
- Higher usage leads to higher per-unit costs due to block tariff structure
Average Electricity Tariff by Province – August 2025
Province | Prepaid (R/kWh) | Postpaid (R/kWh) | Monthly Avg Bill (200kWh) | Monthly Avg Bill (500kWh) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Gauteng | R2.89 | R3.02 | R578 | R1,510 |
Western Cape | R3.04 | R3.12 | R608 | R1,560 |
KwaZulu-Natal | R2.95 | R3.05 | R590 | R1,525 |
Eastern Cape | R2.76 | R2.85 | R552 | R1,425 |
Limpopo | R2.70 | R2.82 | R540 | R1,410 |
Mpumalanga | R2.74 | R2.90 | R548 | R1,450 |
Northern Cape | R2.92 | R3.06 | R584 | R1,530 |
Free State | R2.80 | R2.88 | R560 | R1,440 |
North West | R2.85 | R2.93 | R570 | R1,465 |
What’s Driving the Electricity Price Hike in August 2025?
There are multiple underlying reasons for this price jump, most of which have been building over the last few years.
- Eskom’s ongoing debt of over R400 billion
- Infrastructure maintenance and plant upgrades
- Increased fuel and diesel costs
- Grid expansion for renewable energy integration
Key Factors Explained
Reason | Impact on Tariff Increase |
---|---|
Eskom Debt Servicing | Adds over 15% to national tariff |
Diesel Fuel Price Hike | Raises costs during load shedding |
Municipal Surcharge Increases | Affects final consumer pricing |
Renewable Integration Costs | Drives infrastructure investment |
Grid Maintenance & Expansion | Adds maintenance and reliability costs |
How Will This Tariff Hike Affect You Monthly?
The monthly impact depends on your location, usage, and whether you are billed prepaid or postpaid. Below are scenarios based on average household usage patterns.
- Lower-income households (200–350 kWh) will see R100–R200 increase
- Medium usage (400–600 kWh) could increase bills by R300 or more
- High-usage households (over 800 kWh) may face R600+ monthly increases
Household Impact by Usage Tier – Estimated Monthly Cost Rise
Usage Tier (kWh) | Previous Avg Bill | New Avg Bill | Monthly Difference |
---|---|---|---|
200 kWh | R460 | R578 | +R118 |
350 kWh | R770 | R945 | +R175 |
500 kWh | R1,210 | R1,510 | +R300 |
800 kWh | R1,960 | R2,520 | +R560 |
How to Reduce Your Electricity Bill After the August Tariff Hike
You don’t have to be helpless in the face of rising prices. There are small but effective ways to lower your usage and keep your bills in check.
- Switch to LED bulbs and energy-efficient appliances
- Unplug idle electronics to avoid phantom load
- Use geysers and stoves during off-peak hours
- Install prepaid meter to monitor real-time usage
Cost-Saving Tips That Actually Work
Tip | Estimated Monthly Saving |
---|---|
LED Lighting | R70–R150 |
Solar Geyser Installation | R200–R400 |
Energy-Efficient Fridge | R100–R180 |
Power Usage Scheduling | R80–R120 |
Government Relief Measures & Rebates Available
The government has not left vulnerable households completely unprotected. Here’s what support is available.
- Free Basic Electricity (FBE) for qualifying households (50–100kWh/month)
- Municipal indigent support rebates
- Expanded solar installation grant pilot programs in 6 provinces
- VAT-free supply of solar kits under Green Energy Policy 2025
Who Qualifies for Free Basic Electricity (FBE) in 2025?
Low-income households that meet specific municipal criteria qualify for FBE.
- Monthly household income under R3,500
- Registered with local indigent support program
- Prepaid meter installed on premises
- Usage under 350 kWh per month
What to Do If Your Electricity Bill Is Wrong After Tariff Change
Many users experience bill shocks or errors during new tariff rollouts. If you notice unusually high charges:
- Compare bill dates and meter readings
- Check for backdated billing
- Contact your local municipality billing office within 7 days
- Use Eskom’s customer service if you’re a direct customer
Eskom and Municipal Contact Information
For inquiries or support, here are the key contacts:
Eskom National Customer Service
- Toll-Free: 08600 37566
- Email: customerservices@eskom.co.za
- Website: www.eskom.co.za
City of Johannesburg – Electricity Department
- Phone: 011 490 7000
- Email: billing@citypower.co.za
- Website: www.citypower.co.za
Cape Town – Electricity Services
- Phone: 0860 103 089
- Email: electricity@capetown.gov.za
- Website: www.capetown.gov.za
eThekwini Municipality (Durban)
- Phone: 080 13 13 111
- Email: electricity@durban.gov.za
- Website: www.durban.gov.za
This electricity tariff hike may feel overwhelming, but understanding the structure and preparing for the changes is the first step to managing it. Consumers are encouraged to review their bills carefully, reduce consumption where possible, and reach out to local service providers if they qualify for support.
FAQs of Electricity Tariff Hike
1. When did the new electricity tariffs come into effect?
The new tariffs came into effect on August 15, 2025.
2. Are prepaid users affected by this increase?
Yes, both prepaid and postpaid users are affected by the tariff hike.
3. How much more will I pay monthly after the hike?
It depends on your usage, but increases range between R100 and R600 monthly.
4. Can I still apply for Free Basic Electricity (FBE)?
Yes, if you meet the income and consumption criteria, you can apply via your municipality.
5. Who do I contact if I suspect an error in my electricity bill?
You should contact your municipality or Eskom directly within 7 days of receiving the bill.