Eskom issues warning to owners of solar power panels

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Eskom has urged the public to register their solar systems installations, as unregistered grid-tied solar systems are now considered illegal. South Africans have until March 2026 to register their solar systems with Eskom. This announcement follows the implementation of stricter solar system regulations by Eskom and municipalities.

ESKOM URGES PUBLIC TO APPLY FOR SOLAR SYSTEMS

According to BusinessTech, many people are using solar energy to reduce their electricity bills and lessen their dependence on Eskom. However, this has led to confusion among consumers.

Eskom has issued a warning to households using rooftop solar systems to change them, as they are now deemed illegal. Additionally, Eskom plans to increase tariffs, which could result in electricity costs rising by as much as 321% for some users.

In 2024, Eskom’s electricity sales dropped by 3%, adding financial strain on the company.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST TO REGISTER FOR A SOLAR SYSTEM?

Speaking to SABC News, Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena stated that customers need to apply before they install to understand the requirements for ensuring a quality supply and capacity.

She said, “Customers with systems rated 50 kVA and below will not be required to pay a connection fee. However, the only thing that will be required from a customer is that they need to ensure that somebody like an authorized person like a qualified engineer or technologist need to ensure that whatever they have installed does comply with the NRS 097.”

She added that the customers would, however, need to pay the technologist or engineer who will check if what they have installed in their homes qualifies.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF I DON’T REGISTER BEFORE MARCH 2026?

If customers do not register for the solar system by March 2026, they will face penalties, including a temporary fine of R6 052.

ESKOM AND PwC SETTLE LEGAL DISPUTE

Eskom and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) have reached a legal settlement in the High Court. PwC will pay Eskom R43 million as a full and final settlement of Eskom’s claim against the firm.

Eskom Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane said, “Management’s commitment in dealing with cases arising from the findings of the Zondo Commission has been instrumental in achieving this outcome, and it underscores our dedication to restoring integrity within Eskom.”

Eskom stated that it intends to focus on implementing generation recovery, strengthening governance and tackling crime and corruption while ensuring future energy security.