Eskom: Zero Solar Fees, Free Smart Meters Until 2026 For Homes

Eskom has launched a campaign to assist residential owners of Small-Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG) systems, including solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, in complying with National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) regulations.

Eskom Confirms No Registration Fees for Most Residential Customers

Eskom spokesperson confirmed: “Since March 2023, we have not charged registration fees or smart meter costs for residential PV systems up to 50kVA. This exemption will remain until March 2026, including free smart meters.”

Non-residential SSEG systems above 50kVA follow a different fee structure. Once registered, residential customers shift to the Homeflex tariff, benefiting from energy export credits while paying the same fixed charges as non-SSEG users.

Average Household Saves R9,000

Eskom stated: “A typical 16kVA household saves up to R9,132 due to waived connection fees. Additionally, customers earn credits for feeding excess power back into the grid under NERSA-approved tariffs.”

NERSA Compliance Mandatory for Grid-Tied Systems

Eskom emphasised: “All grid-tied systems under 100kVA must register, even if not exporting power. Off-grid users must prove independence from Eskom’s network.”

Registered households pay R368/month in fixed charges, covering backup, export services, and administration.

Simple 3-Step Registration Process

Apply via Email – Send to ProvinceName@eskom.co.za (e.g., Gauteng@eskom.co.za) with #Applications in the subject line.
Installation & Tariff Shift – Eskom installs a free smart meter (for ≤50kVA) and switches customers to Homeflex.
Deposit Options – Residential deposits (R3,500–R4,800) can be paid over 12 months if no prior deposit exists.