South Africans are set to feel the pinch once again as the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has officially announced a new electricity tariff hike starting November 2025. With rising inflation and operational costs, the power increase comes as part of Eskom’s broader strategy to improve infrastructure and reduce load-shedding. This latest electricity price adjustment will affect both households and businesses across the country, raising concern over affordability and budgeting as summer begins. Here’s a detailed look at what the November 2025 electricity tariff increase means for South African consumers.
New Electricity Tariff Hike by NERSA
NERSA’s decision to approve the tariff increase for November 2025 follows intense discussions around Eskom’s financial sustainability. The approved hike will see an average increase of 12.74% across sectors, which affects residential users, small businesses, and industrial consumers. This adjustment is aimed at helping Eskom recover infrastructure upgrade costs and maintain a more reliable power supply. However, many citizens have raised concerns about affordability, especially amid ongoing economic stress. NERSA stated that this increase aligns with their long-term plan to stabilise South Africa’s energy sector.
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Impact on South African Households and Businesses
The electricity hike in November 2025 will significantly impact monthly electricity bills for households and increase operating expenses for businesses. On average, a medium-use household may pay an additional R250–R300 per month, depending on usage. For small businesses, especially in hospitality and retail, the hike may lead to product price increases to absorb costs. Households relying on prepaid meters will also see lower unit allocations per rand spent. Despite government subsidies for indigent users, many South Africans feel budgeting pressure rising as year-end approaches.
Why the Tariff Increase Was Approved
According to NERSA, the tariff hike was necessary to ensure sustainable energy delivery in South Africa. Eskom has faced years of financial deficits due to unpaid municipal debts, theft, and infrastructure deterioration. The approved price rise will help fund maintenance programs and ongoing upgrades to the national grid. NERSA emphasized that while price increases are difficult, they are essential for long-term power stability. This hike also aligns with Eskom’s 2025 roadmap to reduce load-shedding incidents and invest in alternative energy sources.
Summary and Public Response
The November 2025 electricity price increase has sparked a national conversation in South Africa. While the hike may offer long-term energy security, it brings short-term financial strain for consumers. Many advocacy groups are urging the government to introduce more energy subsidies and expand free basic electricity programs. The hike highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing infrastructure needs with consumer affordability. South Africans are now looking for cost-saving solutions, including solar installations and energy-efficient appliances, to combat rising energy costs.
| Category | Previous Rate (R/kWh) | New Rate (R/kWh) | Percentage Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential (Urban) | 2.20 | 2.48 | 12.73% |
| Prepaid Users | 2.15 | 2.43 | 13.02% |
| Commercial | 1.85 | 2.08 | 12.43% |
| Industrial | 1.60 | 1.80 | 12.50% |
| Low-Income Subsidized | 0.70 | 0.79 | 12.86% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the electricity tariff increase for November 2025?
It’s an average 12.74% hike across all consumer categories.
2. Who approved the tariff increase?
NERSA, the National Energy Regulator of South Africa, approved the new rates.
3. Will prepaid users also be affected?
Yes, prepaid customers will get fewer units per rand starting November 2025.
4. Are there any government subsidies?
Yes, low-income households may qualify for free basic electricity allocations.
