R200-million was lost in wages as a result of the Congress of SA Trade Unions' one-day strike against electricity prices on Wednesday, according to T-Sec economist Mike Schussler.

Schussler said on Thursday the strike had been more of a "hassle" factor than anything else.

"A one-day strike is never a complete success – it's more of a hassle for business," Schussler said.

He added that the strike had come "at the wrong time".

"The high oil, food and energy prices are also hurting South African business – Cosatu should have chosen its target more carefully – they should have thought about engaging through Nedlac, (National Economic Development and Labour Council)," Schussler said.

Nevertheless, he said, after the one-day strike, the economy should "bounce back" without difficulty, although he did acknowledge that the labour protest was "one of the largest for some time".

On Wednesday, thousands of Cosatu members protested countrywide against soaring electricity prices.

The stayaway left commuters stranded as bus, train and taxi services ground to a halt while businesses and mining companies could in the best cases keep only their essential services running.

Sapa