Eskom has concluded a three‑year wage agreement following a Central Bargaining Forum process, which will see employees get a 7% annual salary increase.

In a statement issued on Friday, the power-utility says the collective wage agreement was signed by the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and Solidarity.

The signatory unions represent more than 75% of the employees in the Central Bargaining Forum.

Eskom says the agreement is binding on all employees within the bargaining unit, including those affiliated with the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA).

The three‑year framework is aimed at reducing the volatility associated with annual bargaining cycles.

The agreement is effective for three years, starting from 1 July 2026, providing labour certainty over the medium term.

Eskom’s Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, says the conclusion of the wage process provides Eskom with the stability and predictability required to focus fully on delivering on its mandate to South Africa.

“We recognise that our people are central to driving sustainable growth and to building an organisation that is resilient and attractive to future partners and investors.”

Eskom’s Chief People Officer, Dr Candice Hartley, says this agreement allows employees to remain focused on execution, accountability and consistent delivery, as well as enabling the power-utility to attract future talent to the organisation.

“The agreement reinforces Eskom’s disciplined approach to cost management and operational efficiency. This is underpinned by Eskom’s ongoing implementation of the Cost Optimisation and Revenue Enhancement (CORE) programme, which is targeting R112 billion in cost savings over five years.”

Marokane concluded that the work of transforming Eskom requires continued collaboration across the organisation.

“We value the contribution of labour partners to the bargaining forum and will continue to engage them, on operational priorities, employee wellbeing and the strategic evolution of the business. The conclusion of the wage agreement reflects a shared commitment to organisational stability, constructive labour relations, and the long‑term sustainability of Eskom’s operations and the national power system.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa recently visited the Kusile Power Station in Mpumalanga, where he lauded Eskom’s senior management team, as well as Eskom employees, for their efforts in stabilising the power utility.

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