Define the basic charge in the context of water tariffs and explain how the tariff of R38,62 during 2025/2026 was calculated.

Here are the solutions to the questions:

1.1.1 Define the basic charge in the given context.

A basic charge, in the context of water tariffs, is a fixed monthly fee charged for the water service, irrespective of the actual amount of water consumed by the household or user.

1.1.2 Show how the tariff of R38,62 during 2025/2026 was calculated.

Step 1: Identify the 2024/2025 tariff for the "16 - 30 kl" step and the percentage increase.
The 2024/2025 tariff for 16 - 30 kl is R34.49 per kl.