Big Electricity Price Hike Hits South Africans in July 2025 — What You Need to Know

If you’re feeling the pinch every time you top up your electricity meter, brace yourself — electricity tariffs in South Africa are rising again this month, July 2025. But how much more will you pay? Let’s break down what you can expect — and how to protect your budget.

How Much Is Electricity Going Up in South Africa?

In line with the approved National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) increases, Eskom’s tariffs for direct customers have gone up by 12.74% from 1 April 2025. For many municipal customers, like those in Cape Town, the increase kicks in from 1 July 2025, coinciding with the start of the municipal financial year.

Who does it affect?

All cities and towns that rely on Eskom or get power via their local municipality will feel this increase. Municipalities buy bulk electricity from Eskom and add their own charges to cover distribution costs. So, whether you’re in Cape Town, Joburg, Durban, or a smaller town, you’ll be paying more from this month.

Cape Town’s residential tariffs, for example, have increased by roughly 11.78%, depending on your household’s consumption level and whether you qualify for the Lifeline or Domestic tariff. Check Cape Town’s detailed electricity cost breakdown here.

How Much More Will You Pay Per Month?

The extra you’ll pay depends on your usage, but the average middle-income household spending around R1,500 a month on electricity can expect to pay R175–R200 more each month.

Here’s an example:

• If you were spending R500, you might now spend closer to R560–R570.

• For prepaid users, this means fewer units for the same amount of money.

Moneyweb estimates that the real impact could be even higher because electricity inflation often outpaces general inflation.

How Much Is a R100 Electricity Unit in South Africa Now?

The cost of 1 unit of electricity in South Africa varies by municipality and block tariff. For Cape Town:

• A prepaid unit roughly costs between R2.50 and R3.00 per kWh, depending on how many units you buy.

• For example, R100 would get you about 33–40 units, but this drops as you use more and cross into higher usage blocks.

See the City of Cape Town’s detailed 2025/2026 electricity tariffs here.

Practical Tips to Protect Yourself Against Higher Electricity Costs

With prices climbing, many households are taking steps to manage their electricity inflation. Simple actions include:

• Switching to energy-efficient appliances and LED bulbs.

• Using geyser timers and insulating geysers.

• Considering solar power or inverters if you can afford it.

• Monitoring your usage with smart meters and sticking to lower usage blocks.

Check out Moneyweb’s guide for practical ways to keep your bills in check.

South Africans have no choice but to brace for another significant electricity price hike. With tariffs now 12–13% higher for many, staying energy-smart is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s essential for every household’s budget.