Eskom, South Africa's power utility, has mandated that all grid-tied solar energy systems be registered by March 2026 to comply with legal requirements. The move aims to regulate the increasing popularity of solar installations and address concerns about grid stability and safety.
Eskom , South Africa 's power utility, has issued a critical warning to households with grid-tied solar energy systems. All installations must be registered by March 2026, or they will be deemed illegal. This move comes amidst a surge in solar energy adoption across the country, with many homeowners seeking to reduce their dependence on Eskom and lower electricity costs.
However, the increasing popularity of solar installations has also led to confusion regarding the legal requirements surrounding these systems.Eskom is urging users to ensure their solar systems are properly registered to avoid legal consequences. A spokesperson, Daphne Mokwena, clarified that homeowners with solar systems rated at 50kVA or less will not be required to pay a connection fee. Nevertheless, they must ensure their system adheres to the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRS 097) standards. These standards necessitate verification by an authorized professional, such as a qualified engineer or technologist. The cost of this inspection will be borne by the homeowner.Failure to register a solar system by the March 2026 deadline could result in penalties, including a fine of R6 052. Eskom states that these measures are aimed at streamlining and regulating the growing number of solar installations. The utility is facing challenges, including a 3% decline in electricity sales in 2024, prompting this effort to manage the evolving energy landscape. In other Eskom news, the power utility reached a legal settlement with PwC, with the firm agreeing to pay Eskom R43 million in a case stemming from the findings of the Zondo Commission. Eskom's leadership has emphasized its commitment to improving governance, tackling corruption, and securing the country's energy future
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