Eskom Clarifies No Fines Or Disconnections For Unregistered Rooftop Solar Systems In South Africa

South African homeowners with rooftop solar systems will not face financial penalties or electricity disconnections for failing to register their systems before the September 30, 2026, deadline, according to Eskom.

The clarification follows reports that homeowners could face fines ranging from R6,000 to R30,000 if their small-scale solar installations remained unregistered. However, Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena confirmed that the utility will not impose such penalties or disconnect electricity supplies solely because a household has not completed the registration process.

Energy experts and advocacy groups have also questioned whether Eskom has the legal authority to impose fines or disconnect customers for registration-related non-compliance. They noted that South African electricity laws establish specific conditions under which power supplies can be disconnected, and registration alone does not automatically meet those conditions.

Eskom continues to encourage homeowners to register their rooftop solar installations. The utility says registration is important for maintaining grid safety and stability and for developing a clearer understanding of the number and location of solar systems connected to the electricity network.

According to Eskom, information about installed systems helps the utility verify whether installations comply with applicable safety requirements. This is intended to protect homeowners, electricity workers and the wider distribution network.

However, some energy analysts have challenged these explanations. They argue that properly certified solar installations are already required to comply with established safety standards. Critics have also questioned the need for additional registration, noting that Eskom already publishes estimates of solar generation and usage across the country.

Some analysts believe the registration process could have wider financial implications, particularly for prepaid electricity customers who use rooftop solar. They argue that registration may contribute to moving some users away from conventional basic electricity tariffs toward electricity plans with higher fixed monthly charges.

Despite the debate, Eskom is continuing its registration campaign and has waived administration fees until the end of September. The latest clarification provides reassurance that homeowners who have not yet registered their systems will not face immediate disconnection or heavy fines solely because of the delay.