Drakenstein residents took to the streets of Paarl on Monday to embark on a peaceful community-driven march against Eskom’s proposed 40% electricity tariff increase.

Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, also attended the march, which started at the Huguenot Train Station in Paarl East and ended at the Civic Centre in Paarl.

This follows Drakenstein Executive Mayor Stephen Korabie’s formal objection against the proposed tariff hike last month when he wrote a letter to the board of the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) on behalf of residents.

In the letter, Korabie noted that the proposed increase would have a devastating impact on low-income households, who would be forced to choose between necessities and electricity. The same will apply to local businesses, which would face increased operational costs and potential job losses.

“We request a fair and equitable pricing structure that considers the economic constraints of our residents.” said Korabie

During Monday’s protest, disgruntled residents and the mayor, handed over a petition to the Drakenstein Municipality City Manager, Dr Johan Leibbrandt, demanding that the proposed hike be reconsidered.

Leibbrandt, who also signed the petition in solidarity with the residents, will bring the formal petition to the attention of NERSA on behalf of the entire community.

In the mayor’s letter to NERSA in August, he noted the impact the proposed tariff hike would have on the Municipality’s own ability to deliver essential services and drive economic growth.

He further urged the energy regulator to make alternative solutions that balance Eskom’s needs with the socio-economic realities of the Drakenstein community.

“We understand the need to ensure the financial sustainability of Eskom, but we cannot accept the disproportionate burden placed on our residents, many of whom are already struggling to make ends meet.”

According to reports, if the power utility has its way and NERSA approves the proposed tariff hike, the increase could be implemented as early as 1 April 2025.

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