While loadshedding may have eased up for now, the risk hasn’t vanished and with the rising costs of electricity, Small-Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG) systems—like rooftop solar PV—are booming in Cape Town. But with rising applications (now 1,500+ monthly), the City of Cape Town is tightening enforcement to protect the grid, ensure safety, and cut processing delays. Here’s a quick guide to installing and connecting your grid-tied SSEG system compliantly.
Why Go Grid-Tied?
From October 2023, all SSEG setups must be treated as grid-tied—even “standby” or battery-only systems—to prevent unsafe parallel operation with the grid. This aligns with international best practices, reduces risks like power quality issues and fires, and speeds up approvals. No more off-grid loopholes: incorrect wiring has caused major headaches.
Essential Steps to Apply
- Check your eligibility: Residential systems have a maximum capacity of 13.8kVA, or 4.6kVA per phase (up to a total of 13.8kVA). Commercial and industrial systems have a maximum capacity of 1MVA. Additionally, you must remain a net consumer, meaning you generate less electricity than you use annually.
- Gather Documents & Submit Form: Use the official “Application for the Connection of Embedded Generation” form (available at www.capetown.gov.za/elecserviceforms). Include:
- Property details, existing meter/supply information.
- Single-line diagrams, site plans, and specifications for inverters, PV panels, and batteries.
- Proof of ownership or proxy authorisation.
Pro Sign-Off Required: Every grid-tied install needs certification by an ECSA-registered professional (e.g., Pr. Eng. for commercial; Pr. Techni. Eng. for residential). This shifts liability from you to the expert—vital under the OHS Act until the replacement of SANS 10142-1-2 rules arrive.
Approved Gear Only: Inverters must be NRS 097-2-1 type-tested (check the City’s list for models). European standards aren’t enough—submit test certificates from accredited labs. Add reverse power flow blocking if not exporting excess.
Extra Approvals: Get nods from Planning & Building (for large PV arrays), Health (noise/air for non-PV), and submit a Commissioning Report post-install with your Certificate of Compliance (CoC).
Tariffs and Costs:
You can expect bi-directional metering (AMI) for exports. Residential tariffs will credit an estimated excess of approximately R0.87 per kWh, while commercial tariffs vary. If necessary, fees will cover studies, and quotes will be provided upfront.
Streamlining Ahead
The City is rolling out an online portal for faster residential applications, with standardised options to slash errors and backlogs. Already, grid-tied focus has doubled approvals.
Prioritise compliance: Illegal installations risk fines, disconnections, and safety hazards. For FAQs, forms, and inverter lists, visit www.capetown.gov.za/elecserviceforms or email electricityapplications@capetown.gov.za.
Power up safely—your grid thanks you!
