Dim future in store for Eskom consumers

Eskom has reportedly warned of even more power woes in 2008. The power utility says although there has been a significant decrease in demand for electricity over the festive season, once businesses are up and running supply will be tight. The electricity giant says it is continuously working on increasing capacity to deal with the growing demand.

Eskom's Andrew Etzinger says although no load-shedding is expected over the next two weeks, the future does not look bright.

On December 20 the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) rejected a request by Eskom to increase electricity tariffs by 18.7% this year. The power utility requested this to allow it to invest in much needed new capacity.

Nersa has however approved a 14.2% hike. The regulator earlier said it declined Eskom's request because of the impact it could have on economic growth and poor South Africans.