The state owned power utility, Eskom, had requested price increases of up to 45% over the next three years but decreased the figure after many protests were received from local mining companies. Eskom looks to the future recognizing the need the raise R385 billion in the next three years in order implement its power expansion programme. Eskom was hoping that Nersa would approve a percentage increase closer to 35% which would be an increase from last year’s 31% electricity price increase. Nersa’s announcement on Wednesday will be followed by a round of public hearings on the matter.