Eskom aims to register all solar users in SA

Eskom is intensifying efforts to identify and register households that have installed rooftop solar power systems, warning that failure to comply could result in hefty fines or even disconnection from the grid.

The utility has launched a countrywide push, urging homeowners with grid-tied solar setups to register them under its small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) programme.

This initiative is part of Eskom’s broader plan to ensure that all solar users are compliant with national regulations, and contributing fairly to the management of the power grid.

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Daphne Mokwena, Eskom spokesperson, said to Fourways Review that the utility is using various methods to track down unregistered systems. “We are using various methods and analytics to identify unauthorised SSEG installations, to ensure they reach all SSEG customers through campaigns.”

She said that the goal is not just enforcement; it’s to encourage voluntary compliance by making the registration process more attractive to homeowners. “We believe these different approaches of identifying customers will assist Eskom in encouraging customers with grid tied SSEGs to come forward and register during the SSEG incentive campaign, which is running until March 2026.”

Urban residential customers stand to benefit significantly from registering their systems. “Urban residential customers can enjoy the benefit of waived registration related costs for supplies up to 50kVA. This registration campaign incentive gives these customers a saving R9 132 from the connection charges exemptions, which includes a free smart meter.”

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To make the process even more accessible, Mokwena said Eskom is offering a grace period to all who register before the deadline.

“Customers who come forward will be granted a 12-month grace period to bring their systems into compliance, in addition to the waiver available to customers until the end of March 2026.

“During the grace period, no penalties will be imposed on non-compliant, grid-tied customers.”

After March 2026, however, the full cost of registration will apply. “Those not reached through Eskom’s presentations and media outreach can still register by visiting the Eskom SSEG website landing page.”

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