The South African Local Government Association (Salga) has voiced concerns over new electricity tariffs set by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa). Salga president Bheke Stofile stated that the increases impose a heavy burden on municipalities and consumers.
The South African Local Government Association (Salga) raised concerns about new electricity tariffs introduced by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa). According to Salga, these increases place a heavy burden on municipalities and consumers, while slowing economic growth and requiring urgent attention. This statement came from Salga president Bheke Stofile during an interview with the SABC on the sidelines of Cogta Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa’s engagement with metro municipalities in Boksburg on the East Rand of Gauteng. Published on 20 March 2026, the remarks highlight disparities in tariff approvals. Stofile noted: “The tariff is a big issue. In the public, we talk about municipalities owning Eskom and water boards. But here is an issue: water boards are given through NERSA, 16.7 % increase; Municipalities are given 9.1 %. Who is going to fund the difference? We need to deal with issues of tariff SETEC because they are killing the municipalities.” Salga's position underscores challenges faced by local governments in funding operations amid differing tariff hikes for electricity and water services.