Minister of Electricity and Energy Kgosientsho Ramokgopa emphasized the importance of renewable energy in making electricity more affordable for South African households. His comments come in light of Eskom's request for the energy regulator to approve significant tariff increases: a 36% hike next year, followed by 12% in the 2026/27 financial year and 9% in 2027/28.
Speaking at an energy seminar in Midrand on Monday, Ramokgopa stated that investing in renewable energy sources could provide relief to many South Africans. "Investing in this area is going to help us to resolve the affordability question. We must accelerate the share of renewables in our energy mix, as they play a crucial role in ensuring electricity remains affordable, despite the technical challenges involved," he noted.