Note: This article has been updated with revisions advised by the City of Cape Town to ensure accuracy and compliance.
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 average 634 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 are 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 [IJ1] per phase (up to a total of 13.8kVA).
Pro Sign-Off Required: Every grid-tied install requires certification by an ECSA-registered professional (e.g., Pr. Eng. for commercial; Pr. Techni. Eng. for residential). This covers liability not currently covered in SANS 10142-1—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 R1.0123 per kWh, while commercial tariffs R1.0370 per kWh. 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 [IJ2] .
Prioritise compliance: Illegal installations risk fines, disconnections, and safety hazards. For FAQs, forms, and inverter lists, visit www.capetown.gov.za/elecserviceforms or email electricityapplication.queries@capetown.gov.za.
Power up safely—your grid thanks you!
