Nersa mulls interim tariff solution for ferrochrome smelters amid parallel work targeting 62c/kWh

Eskom has requested the energy regulator to approve an interim tariff of 87c/kWh in favour of Samancor Chrome and the Glencore-Merafe Chrome Venture as a temporary measure to sustain smelter operations while talks continued in relation to a longer-term solution aimed at further reducing the tariff to 62c/kWh. The utility has also requested the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) to extend, by a further 12 months, waivers both companies secured last year in relation to take-or-pay obligations included in their negotiated pricing agreements (NPAs) with Eskom, which came into effect in 2024.