With local businesses and households consistently struggling with energy-related challenges, including rising electricity tariffs that are exerting financial pressure across the board, financial institution Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking executive head for energy, infrastructure and mining Deerosh Maharaj says urgent attention and innovative solutions are needed to ensure resilience and growth in the shifting energy landscape. Higher tariffs erode disposable income, limiting spending power and creating broader economic ripple effects, with the indirect consequences equally concerning, particularly the risk of job losses as businesses struggle to maintain profitability under rising operational costs.