INCREASED TARIFFS OVER CHRISTMAS PERIOD

For the past 5 days we have had visitors, the electricty usage for the household has therefore increased because of Christmas day cooking and the geyser being on more often. Our tarriffs have been R50 for 7.2 units yesterday and then this morning R50 for 4 units. When we go to the office to find out what is going on they are closed, the call centre agent advised that we need to keep purchasing. I am beyond appalled. HOW IS THIS OKAY? We will have no money before the 1st. Can someone please provide a solution?