There is much uncertainty surrounding the suspension of the Ekurhuleni Metro’s fixed electricity tariff charge.
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) can confirm that the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has not received a formal notification from the Ekurhuleni Metro regarding the Council’s decision on 31 July to scrap this basic charge.
This was gleaned from direct correspondence between NERSA and a resident who had enquired about the matter.
In its response, NERSA confirms that it is unaware of any request from Ekurhuleni to abolish the fixed tariff structure. The only communication it has on record is a statement from the Mayor of Ekurhuleni following protests in Tembisa on 26 July 2025.
This means:
• NERSA was not officially informed of the Council’s decision to abolish the fixed tariff structure.
• No amended tariff schedules appear to have been submitted for regulatory approval.
• The only “communication” NERSA received is a media statement from the Mayor, which has no legal or regulatory status.
• Residents may still be billed for the suspended fixed charge – without any guarantees of refunds or adjustments.
The Freedom Front Plus has already brought this serious oversight to the attention of the Mayor, Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, and demanded answers regarding how and when the decision will be formally implemented, communicated to NERSA and published in the Government Gazette to be legally binding.
If the necessary administrative and regulatory steps are not taken immediately, the Municipality risks billing residents unlawfully, which could lead to refund obligations, potential legal claims and further erosion of public trust in the ANC/EFF-controlled Municipality.
The party will closely monitor the matter and hold the ANC/EFF accountable to ensure that the decision is lawfully implemented, properly communicated and that residents are treated fairly.
