Eskom Going After People with Solar Panels on Their Roofs

Eskom has issued a warning to South Africans with rooftop solar panels, urging them to register their systems or risk penalties. Homeowners and businesses that fail to comply could face costs exceeding R50,000 to bring their installations up to standard.

The power utility emphasized that the registration process is crucial for ensuring that solar systems do not compromise the safety and stability of the national grid. However, many South Africans are only now learning about this requirement, with energy expert Matthew Cruise attributing the confusion to poor public awareness from Eskom.

Cruise explained that solar systems must be registered under Eskom’s Small Scale Embedded Generators (SSEG) programme, which involves an inspection by a qualified electrical engineer. This process ensures the system meets fire safety standards and does not feed electricity back into the grid when it shouldn’t – a key concern for Eskom’s power line safety.

Delays, Backlogs, and Cost Concerns

Eskom’s application backlog during South Africa’s energy crisis meant that, at one point, approvals took up to six months. As a result, many homeowners proceeded with installing and using solar systems before getting approval.

Another major factor discouraging registration was Eskom’s proposed tariff hikes for solar users. The utility previously considered increasing electricity costs for solar-powered homes and businesses, either by charging higher rates during grid usage or raising fixed costs from 30% to 70% of their electricity bills.

Many solar users also opted not to register due to fears of these increased costs, despite the long-term benefits of compliance.

Financial and Safety Risks for Solar Users

For those now seeking compliance, the cost of registration and necessary safety improvements could reach R50,000 or more. Businesses that used unqualified installers may face even higher expenses if their systems require major repairs or reinstallation.

Additionally, solar users without a valid Certificate of Compliance (COC) risk having their insurance claims denied in the event of fire damage linked to a faulty installation. Some businesses have already faced significant financial losses due to substandard solar setups.

Grace Period for Registration

Eskom has temporarily waived the application fee until March, giving homeowners a chance to comply without additional charges. Cruise advises those with solar to apply immediately and ensure their installations meet all technical and safety requirements to avoid potential penalties and risks in the future.