Eskom has maintained September 30, 2026 as the deadline for residential customers with rooftop solar and battery storage systems to register their installations.
The deadline covers low-voltage solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage systems installed behind the meter and connected to Eskom Distribution’s network. The utility previously set March 31 as the deadline before extending it following pressure from homeowners, installers and civil society groups.
Eskom has also dropped its requirement for professional sign-off by an Engineering Council of South Africa-registered professional. Customers can now submit a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) issued by a qualified installation electrician or electrical contractor registered with the Department of Employment and Labour.
The utility has withdrawn earlier threats to fine or disconnect customers simply for failing to register their systems. However, Eskom says it can still disconnect installations it considers “unsafe.”
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) disputes this position, arguing that a valid CoC provides legal proof that an electrical installation meets safety requirements. OUTA says Eskom would first need to successfully challenge the validity of the CoC before disconnecting a compliant customer on safety grounds.
The dispute comes as rooftop solar and battery storage have expanded rapidly in South Africa due to years of load shedding and rising electricity costs. Eskom has acknowledged that most existing low-voltage solar and battery installations remain unregistered.
For now, homeowners should take note of the September 30, 2026 deadline, while OUTA continues discussions with Eskom and considers possible legal action if the utility disconnects customers with valid Certificates of Compliance.
Other Articles
Niger State Sets 1GW Solar Power Target for 2030
No Comment! Be the first one.