The Kimberley Action Group believes that the new electricity tariffs will have dire financial ramifications for ratepayers.
THE KIMBERLEY Action Group believes that the new electricity tariffs will have dire financial ramifications for ratepayers.
The 15 percent electricity increase will come into effect on July 1.
Boyce Makodi from the Kimberley Action Group stated that over 10,000 households would be liable to pay basic and capacity charges.
“Due to the lack of clarity and lack of public participation, we request that the structural changes be put on hold until the community has been extensively consulted,” said Makodi.
He pointed out that it was questionable that the increases were implemented two weeks after the cost of supply was sent to the National Energy Regulator (Nersa) for approval.
“The timing of the presentations/consultations is bordering on unethical and illegal. Public participation is crucial and should not be by-passed.”
The FF+ has warned that ratepayers would have to monitor their electricity usage in order to avoid high electricity bills when the power hike comes into effect.
FF+ councillor Kobus van den Berg pointed out that it appeared as if the new electricity tariffs were designed to prevent overloading of the system during peak hours.
“According to the municipal manager, Sol Plaatje Municipality is fined R50 million per month during the winter months for this purpose. If residents can lower usage, the municipality can reduce this by R130 million per year.”
