Small-scale embedded electricity generation

Small scale embedded generation – connecting your generator to the grid.
Eskom’s shift towards more integrated electricity systems and new energy solutions has seen a growing number of consumers generating and distributing their own energy via the installation of small-scale embedded generation (SSEG).
Eskom’s shift towards more integrated electricity systems and new energy solutions has seen a growing number of consumers generating and distributing their own energy via the installation of small-scale embedded generation (SSEG).
Eskom’s SSEG programme also responds to the large demand alternative clean energy which can be integrated back into the national grid.
Generator licensing and registration
Generators exempted from licensing and registration with NERSA
- Your generator is used for private use only, as a back-up source of electricity, in the case of a power outage.
- Your generator does not have a point of connection to the distribution network.
- Your generator, of no more than 100 kW, is connected to the grid and the electricity is for your own use only (not supplying other customers).
However, if your generator is connected to the grid, you will have to apply for a grid connection, pay the quoted fees, and sign the required Eskom agreements.
Generators requiring registration
- Your generator has a maximum capacity of 1 MW.
- Your generator has a point of connection (whether you are exporting energy into the grid or not).
- Your generator supplies electricity to a customer or related customer(s), even 100 kW and below.
- Your generator is used for demonstration purposes only, for a maximum period of 36 months.
- Your generator produces electricity from waste, or industrial residues.
- Your generator was exempt from licensing prior to the amendment on 26 March of schedule 2 of the Electricity Regulation Act.
NERSA will require information from Eskom to ensure that a grid connection is possible. You will have to apply to become grid-tied, pay the quoted fees, and sign the required Eskom agreements.
Generators requiring licencing
- Any generator with a capacity above 1 MW.
- Any generator, irrespective of size, supplying electricity to more than one non-related customer.
Exceptions:
- A generator above 1 MW used for demonstration purposes only, for a maximum period of 36 months.
- A generator producing electricity from waste heat.