Hundreds of Durban residents protested outside the Royal Hotel on Thursday, forcing the postponement of a National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) public hearing on Eskom’s proposed 36% electricity tariff hike.

The overwhelming crowd, which included local ratepayer groups, ward councillors, and environmental activists, demanded the cancellation of the increase.

Citing the unaffordability of current electricity rates. Members of Abahlali BaseMjondolo and senior citizens from the Durban South Service Centre were particularly vocal.

Protesters criticized NERSA for booking a venue too small to accommodate the large turnout.

NERSA chairperson Nomfundo Maseti acknowledged the issue, promising to reschedule the hearing at a larger venue.