New online solar PV authorisation aims to cut turnaround times drastically

19 March 2024

The City’s new online solar PV authorisation portal, that can be found on eServices, aims to cut the authorisation turnaround drastically. There has been a solar PV boom in Cape Town.

Authorising solar PV systems is a national requirement to enhance safety as fires and power outages can be caused by inferior, unauthorised PV systems, which also endanger frontline electrical workers maintaining the City's electrical grid.

'We are so proud of the work that has been done to troubleshoot the issues created by an unprecedented switch to solar PV. Thank you to City teams for their 24/7 commitment to getting the online portal ready in record time so that our customers and their service providers may experience a better and faster service.

'It is important to emphasise that if an application has already been submitted prior to the online service coming into effect, the applicant need not resubmit online. The City will take care of the pending applications already in the system and upload them on behalf of the applicants.

'Also, the property owner needs to be registered on the City's eServices portal to gain access to the Energy services platform.

'Over 5 000 solar PV systems have been authorised to date, totalling 126 MVA (mega volt amperes), with monthly applications to the City tripling between 2021 and 2023.

'The new Energy Services Application will automate the issuing of Permission to Install Letters for certain types of applications, such as small residential solar PV and battery systems, thus vastly reducing turnaround times,' said the City's Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, Councillor Beverley van Reenen.

How to authorise a solar PV system online

Step 1: Register on eServices and activate the "Energy Services" tile to access the Energy Service Applications.

It takes about two days to activate the eServices account.

You can then apply to authorise your solar PV system via the easy-to-use online portal on eServices. For more information, visit: http://www.capetown.gov.za/ApplyForSSEG

Installers are invited to sign up for the Solar PV Installer Newsflash to receive the latest up-to-date information: visit here.

How to apply to get Cash for Power

For more information, visit: https://www.capetown.gov.za/cashforpower

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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office