In South Africa, the registration process for Small-Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG) systems, such as rooftop solar, is crucial for legal compliance, safety, and proper integration with the national electricity grid. Here’s a breakdown of how it generally works:
- What is SSEG and Why Register?
- SSEG refers to any small-scale electricity generation system (typically under 1 MW) that operates in parallel with the main electricity grid. Solar PV systems are the most common type.
- Why Register?
- Legal Compliance: It’s a mandatory requirement by both Eskom (the national power utility) and local municipalities.
- Safety: Ensures your system is installed according to safety and technical standards (like NRS 097-2) to protect both your property and utility workers.
- Grid Stability: Prevents your system from negatively impacting the grid during maintenance or outages.
- Feed-in Tariffs: In some municipalities, registering allows you to sell excess electricity back to the grid, earning credits on your bill.
- Insurance: Proper registration can be a requirement for insurance coverage of your solar investment.
- Key Role Players:
- Eskom: If Eskom is your direct electricity supplier, you’ll register with them.
- Local Municipality: If your electricity is supplied by a local municipality (e.g., City of Cape Town, Johannesburg, Tshwane), you’ll register with them.
- NERSA (National Energy Regulator of South Africa): For larger SSEG systems (typically above 100kW), NERSA registration or a license may be required. They also play a role in setting guidelines and ensuring compliance.
- Certified Solar Provider/Installer: It’s highly recommended to work with a reputable installer who can guide you through the process, ensure compliance, and often assist with the application.
- Professional Engineer (PR Eng): A registered engineer will often be required to sign off on technical documents like the Single Line Diagram (SLD) and commissioning reports.
- General SSEG Registration Process Steps:
While the exact steps might vary slightly between Eskom and different municipalities, the general process involves:
- Step 1: Determine Your Electricity Provider: Confirm whether Eskom or your local municipality supplies your electricity, as this dictates where you submit your application.
- Step 2: Gather Required Documents: This is a crucial step and typically includes:
- Completed SSEG application form (available from Eskom or your municipality).
- Proof of property ownership/account details (electricity bill, ID).
- Technical specifications of your solar system (inverter details, solar panel capacity).
- Certificate of Compliance (CoC): For the electrical installation, signed by a qualified electrician.
- Single Line Diagram (SLD): A detailed electrical diagram of your system, often signed by an ECSA-registered engineer.
- Commissioning report (after installation).
- Step 3: Submit Your Application:
- This can often be done through SSEG service providers or directly with your municipalities.
- Alternatively, it might involve submitting physical documents.
- Step 4: Await Review and Potential Inspections:
- Eskom or the municipality will review your application to ensure it meets technical and safety standards.
- A site inspection might be conducted to verify the installation’s compliance.
- For grid-tied systems, your existing meter might be replaced with a bidirectional smart meter to measure both imported and exported energy. Your electricity account may also be converted to an appropriate SSEG-friendly tariff.
- Step 5: Receive Final Approval: Once all requirements are met and inspections passed, you’ll receive official approval, allowing you to legally operate your SSEG system.
- Step 6 (for systems exporting to grid): If you intend to sell excess energy back to the grid (feed-in tariff), a contract between you and the utility (Eskom or municipality) will usually be required.
- Important Considerations:
- System Size: The size of your SSEG system can affect the level of regulation. Systems under 100kW typically require registration, while larger systems might require a NERSA license.
- Compliance with Standards: Ensure your system and installation comply with national standards, particularly NRS 097-2, which governs the connection of embedded generation to the grid.
- Installer Competence: Choose an installer with proven experience and the necessary certifications to ensure a compliant and safe installation.
- Patience: The registration process can sometimes take time (from a few weeks to several months, depending on the municipality and complexity).
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s always best to consult the specific guidelines provided by your local municipality or Eskom, or work with a specialized SSEG service provider.