Eskom has made it easier and cheaper for households and small businesses to install and register solar energy systems legally. The changes, effective from 1 October 2025, simplify the compliance process for small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) users, such as those with rooftop solar.
These updates follow years of consultation with energy industry bodies, including SABS, SAPVIA, AMEU, and NERSA.
What’s Changed in 2025?
Here are the key benefits now available to SSEG customers:
| Change/Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| No Fees | No registration or connection fees for systems up to 50kVA (until Mar 2026) |
| Simplified Certification | Sign-off now allowed by DoL-registered electricians (not just ECSA pros) |
| Simpler Requirements | Certificate of Compliance + EGI test report needed |
| Applies to | Systems under 100kVA (including those not exporting to the grid) |
| Off-grid Exemption | Systems not connected to Eskom don’t need to register |
| No Smart Meter Fee | Still exempt for systems under 50kVA |
This simplified process can save residential customers over R9,000 on installation compliance alone for a typical 16kVA rooftop setup.
Who Qualifies for Easier Compliance?
These changes apply to:
- Households and small businesses with solar PV systems up to 100kVA
- Customers connected to the Eskom distribution network
- Customers who do not export power, as well as those who do
- Those who register their systems as required by NERSA
Systems that are fully off-grid and independent from Eskom’s supply are exempt from registration—provided proof of independence is available.
Why Registration Matters
By registering your SSEG system, you:
- Comply with NERSA regulations
- Ensure electrical safety
- Become eligible for future clean energy incentives
- Can access Homeflex tariff benefits if exporting to the grid
Eskom encourages customers to register early and safely:
Visit eskom.co.za for registration forms and info
What Eskom Says
“We’ve worked hard to make compliance easier, safer, and more affordable for everyone,”
said Agnes Mlambo, Acting Group Executive for Distribution at Eskom.
“South Africans are eager to join the clean energy transition, and we want to support that.”
Quick Summary
- No more costly ECSA sign-offs for homes
- Save over R9,000 in registration and connection fees
- Easier legal compliance, safer integration
- Valid until March 2026 for systems under 50kVA
