The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) has welcomed State-owned utility Eskom’s decision to extend its zero-registration fee policy and free smart meter installation for residential small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) customers in Eskom-supplied areas until March 2026.

This intervention lowers barriers for homeowners adopting solar PV energy while ensuring compliance with regulations.

Since March 2023, Eskom has waived registration fees and smart meter costs for PV systems up to 50 kVA. This extension allows eligible households to save up to R9 132 in connection costs, making solar adoption more accessible.

SAPVIA explains that Eskom requires all embedded generation systems below 100 kVA to be registered, even if they do not export power to the grid. Fully off-grid customers are exempt but must provide proof of self-sufficiency.

The association notes that registering ensures compliance with national energy regulations and helps maintain grid stability.

“SAPVIA supports efforts to streamline the registration process, ensuring solar PV systems are safely and effectively integrated into South Africa’s electricity network,” says SAPVIA CEO Dr Rethabile Melamu.

“By removing financial barriers and incentivising compliance, Eskom is taking an important step toward a more sustainable and resilient energy future.”

SAPVIA explains that registered customers will transition to Eskom’s Homeflex tariff, which includes a fixed charge of between R192 and R368 a month for both solar and non-solar households; as well as a structured framework that ensures the quality and safety of the grid for all users.

On Homeflex, the same fixed charges apply as on Homepower but the energy charges are based on time of use (ToU).

“You can add generating offset for net billing and be credited for the export per ToU period summed up at the end of the month,” says Melamu.

“It means that Eskom gives back to you at the end of the month what you banked but this does not exceed what you consumed. It is not a feed in tariff or a payment and therefore does not offset other charges.”

SAPVIA highlights the three-step registration process, namely applying for registration; scheduling an installation; and then billing and deposit.

Firstly, customers must email Eskom through their province’s designated address, with #Applications in the subject line, to apply for registration.

Secondly, SAPVIA notes that Eskom will install and activate the smart meter at no cost for qualifying residential customers.

Lastly, Eskom will provide an estimated monthly bill, with deposit payments available in instalments over 12 months if required.

SAPVIA says it urges all SSEG system owners to meet Eskom’s compliance and safety requirements, including using equipment that meets South African standards – NRS 097-2; securing a valid Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for internal wiring; and Act Now – Limited-Time Incentives

“Whilst not a legal or regulatory requirement, a PV GreenCard installation company will issue an additional report to the CoC that provides the system details and outlines quality and safety considered,” Melamu recommends.

Eskom’s waiver makes solar PV adoption more affordable, but homeowners should act promptly to take advantage of the zero-registration fee and free smart meter installation before the March 2026 deadline, says SAPVIA.

By easing regulatory barriers and promoting compliance, Eskom is accelerating the country’s renewable-energy transition.

SAPVIA says it remains committed to collaborating with Eskom, municipalities and industry stakeholders to raise awareness and simplify regulatory compliance.