The mayor stands at a podium with a microphone in front of him UMngeni mayor Chris Pappas has raised his concern about the electricity tariff increase being proposed by the Msunduzi Municipality. File Picture: Khaya Ngwenya Independent Newspapers
Durban: uMngeni Municipality mayor Chris Pappas has spoken out about the 36% electricity tariff hike that has been proposed by the Msunduzi Municipality.
The Msunduzi Municipality’s draft budget shows that the city has proposed a 36% tariff increase for the 2025-26 financial year.
Pappas stated that such an increase is detrimental to the residents and business community, who are already struggling with escalating costs.
The mayor highlighted that electricity supply for Hilton, which falls under uMngeni Municipality, is supplied by the Msunduzi Municipality.
The two municipalities could be heading to court over the issue, as uMgeni believes it should be in charge of the electricity supply.
“The proposed 36% electricity tariff increase is indeed a difficult issue. If Msunduzi Municipality is merely passing on what Eskom has requested from NERSA (National Energy Regulator of South Africa), then the root of the problem lies with Eskom and NERSA, not with Msunduzi.
“However, if this increase is above and beyond what Eskom has proposed and is not tied to an approved Eskom increase, then it is completely unacceptable and must be challenged.
“Regardless, such an increase will be highly detrimental to residents and businesses, who are already struggling with escalating costs and inconsistent electricity supply. While Msunduzi may have limited control over Eskom-related increases, they must remain mindful of the financial strain placed on consumers and explore ways to mitigate these impacts through efficient management and improved service delivery.
“We will closely monitor this situation and continue to advocate for fairness and accountability on behalf of our residents,” he said.
ACDP councillor in Msunduzi, Rienus Niemand, stated that the paying public must reject the proposed tariff increase with the contempt it deserves during the public participation meetings that are to be held.
“Silence and non-participation of the public, who will be paying these unaffordable tariff increases in the public participation process, would be sheer folly. The ACDP will vigorously oppose the proposed tariff increases.”
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