The energy regulator (NERSA) approved temporary electricity price relief of 87.74 c/kWh for ferrochrome smelters.
This is only for facilities operated by Samancor Chrome and Glencore-Merafe Chrome Venture, until the 31st of December 2026.
This follows a submission by Eskom on the 2nd of December 2025, prompted by the worsening of operational and market conditions in the ferrochrome sector.
The relief is expected to halt job losses, which amounted to over 7,000 at major producers like Samancor and Glencore-Merafe.
Willy Majola, Full-Time Regulator Member responsible for electricity regulation, said “this approval will help safeguard critical industrial capacity, preserve thousands of direct and indirect jobs, support local beneficiation and mitigate broader negative economic and social impacts on affected communities and the national economy.”
This adjusted tariff covers the marginal cost of electricity, along with necessary subsidies and legacy charges.
Picture: Supplied