The Department of Electricity and Energy has invited public comments on its Revised Electricity Pricing Policy (EPP) 2026, publishing the document in the Government Gazette, No. 55257, dated 28 August 2026. This invitation, identified as Notice No. 7852, appeared within this specific Gazette issue on August 28, 2026. Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, MP, Minister of Electricity and Energy, initiated the public comment period for the policy, showing the government's commitment to transparent and inclusive policymaking.
Minister Ramokgopa stated, "I, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, MP, Minister of Electricity and Energy, hereby publish the Revised Electricity Pricing Policy, 2026, for public comment." The formal publication on August 28, 2026, begins the key process for stakeholders, industry participants, and the general public to provide feedback on the proposed changes to electricity pricing across the nation. This public engagement is a vital step in ensuring the policy is strong and reflective of diverse perspectives.
Public Comment Process
Written comments on the Revised Electricity Pricing Policy, 2026, must be submitted within 30 days of the policy's publication. This deadline, specifically 30 days from August 28, 2026, allows a defined period for thorough review and response from all interested parties. The Department of Electricity and Energy has outlined specific methods for the public to provide feedback, ensuring accessibility for all potential contributors.
Submissions can be sent via postal service to Private Bag X 96, Pretoria, 0001. This traditional method accommodates those who prefer physical correspondence or do not have access to digital submission channels. Alternatively, individuals and organizations may deliver their comments by hand. Hand deliveries are accepted at Matimba House, located at 192 Visagie Street, Cnr Paul Kruger, Pretoria, providing a direct physical drop-off point during business hours. For digital submissions, comments can be conveniently sent via email to [email protected], offering an efficient and widely accessible option.
All comments, regardless of submission method, must be formally addressed to the Director-General of the Department of Electricity and Energy. They must also be specifically marked for the attention of Mr. Joseph Maraba, according to the Department's guidelines. Adhering to these submission protocols is essential to ensure that all feedback is properly received, cataloged, and considered during the policy review process. The Department emphasizes the importance of clear and concise submissions to facilitate effective analysis.
Policy Scope and Content
The Revised Electricity Pricing Policy, 2026, applies comprehensively to the South African Electricity Supply Industry, outlining a detailed and extensive framework for electricity tariffs and related services. It addresses various critical aspects of the sector, from the initial stages of generation to the final point of consumer sales, ensuring a holistic approach to pricing regulation. The policy aims to establish a fair, transparent, and sustainable pricing structure for electricity in South Africa.
The policy document is structured into several key sections, providing a clear roadmap for its objectives and implementation. These sections include an Introduction and Background, which sets the context for the policy's development, and General Pricing Principles, which lay out the fundamental philosophies guiding tariff determination. Further sections detail Pricing Interfaces, explaining how different parts of the electricity value chain interact financially. Specific pricing mechanisms are covered under Generator Pricing, addressing the costs associated with electricity production, and Wholesale Pricing, which deals with bulk electricity transactions. The policy also includes provisions for Cross-Border Sales, regulating the pricing of electricity traded internationally.
The scope also extends significantly to Distribution and Retail Pricing, which directly impacts end-users, and Demand-Side Flexible Services, promoting efficient electricity consumption. Utility-Owned Embedded Generation is another key area, addressing electricity produced by utilities for their own use or local distribution. Additionally, the policy includes full provisions for Subsidies, outlining mechanisms for financial support, and Regulations, detailing the legal and administrative frameworks governing pricing. This broad overview reflects the complexity and multifaceted nature of the electricity pricing landscape that the policy seeks to manage and optimize.
One specific aspect addressed in the policy is Free Basic Electricity (FBE), which is identified as a State initiative. This provision aims to ensure access to a baseline amount of electricity for eligible citizens, reflecting government efforts to support essential services and alleviate energy poverty for vulnerable households. The policy outlines the criteria and mechanisms for the implementation and funding of FBE.
The policy also defines Negotiated Pricing Agreements (NPAs). These agreements are described as prices that may deviate from approved standard tariff levels. NPAs allow for flexibility in specific circumstances, potentially accommodating large industrial users or other unique situations that require bespoke pricing arrangements outside the general tariff structure. Such agreements are key for fostering economic growth and ensuring competitiveness for key industries within the South African economy.
Regulatory Context
The Revised Electricity Pricing Policy, 2026, is set within a broader legislative framework, acknowledging key regulatory instruments that govern the energy sector. The policy makes explicit reference to The Electricity Regulation Amendment Act, 2024 (Act No 38 of 2024), which provides an updated legal basis for electricity sector governance, reflecting recent legislative reforms. Additionally, the document prominently references The National Energy Regulator Act, 2004 (Act No 40 of 2004), which establishes the overarching regulatory authority for the energy sector in South Africa, including its mandate over electricity pricing. These acts collectively form the legal foundation guiding the Department of Electricity and Energy's approach to pricing and market structure, ensuring the policy operates within established legal parameters.
