As of 1 July 2025, South African households are facing a significant increase in electricity costs, with municipal tariff increases hit 14% in some areas. This comes at a time when many families are already grappling with high living expenses and winter energy demands. Understanding how to manage household electricity usage has never been more essential.
Recent approvals from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) reveal average tariff hikes ranging from 12.4% to 13.4% in metros like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and eThekwini. This follows Eskom’s earlier 11.32% increase in bulk supply charges, further burdening end consumers.
Why the 14% Increase Matters
This isn’t just a routine annual adjustment. With South Africa’s current inflation rate hovering below 4%, the steep electricity hikes represent a sharp rise in living costs. Economist Marc du Plessis explains:
“Every month, these households see more of their salary going towards electricity costs, and that’s not even considering the higher consumption that occurs over winter.”
Middle-income families are especially affected, with limited options to absorb rising costs. These tariff increases also risk widening the gap in energy access and affordability.
How to Manage Household Electricity Usage
1. Cut Back on High-Consumption Appliances
Start with a home energy audit. Geysers, heaters, and ovens are major energy consumers. Geysers alone can account for up to 40% of your electricity bill. Using a timer, insulating the tank, and lowering the temperature to 55–60°C can save hundreds of rands monthly.
2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Swapping out old appliances for energy-efficient alternatives—especially those rated A+ or better—can lead to long-term savings. LED lights, motion sensors, and smart plugs can all reduce waste without sacrificing comfort.
3. Go Solar—Even in Small Steps
Solar energy is becoming a viable option for many households. Even small systems like solar geysers or backup power for essentials can offer immediate relief. According to LookSee by Standard Bank:
“Solar is an increasingly affordable way to control spiralling electricity costs for South African households.”
LookSee’s Smart Save calculator helps you estimate savings and tailor a system that fits your home and budget.
4. Don’t Miss Out on Free Basic Electricity (FBE)
If your household qualifies, you can access 50 kWh of free electricity every month under the national Free Basic Electricity programme. This is crucial for low-income households. To check if you’re eligible, contact your local municipality or visit their website for application details.
ALSO READ: City Power Offers Free 50kWh Electricity to Eligible Johannesburg Residents – Register Now
Municipal Tariff Increases Hit 14%: Time to Plan Ahead
Rising tariffs are expected to continue, making energy planning a necessity. Here are practical steps you can take:
- Review your monthly bill and look for usage patterns
- Use smart meters or apps to track daily consumption
- Run energy-intensive appliances like washing machines during off-peak hours
- Get the whole family involved in energy-saving habits
Take Control of Your Energy Future
As municipal tariff increases hit 14%, South Africans must take proactive steps to stay ahead of rising costs. With a combination of smart energy choices, solar investment, and access to support programmes like FBE, households can soften the blow of these unavoidable hikes.
