Home Southern Africa Eskom Cracks Down on Unregistered Solar Systems Using Satellites: Homeowners Urged to...

Eskom Cracks Down on Unregistered Solar Systems Using Satellites: Homeowners Urged to Comply or Face Penalties

16
Eskom Cracks Down on Unregistered Solar Systems Using Satellites: Homeowners Urged to Comply or Face Penalties

(3 Minutes Read)

Eskom has announced it will use satellite imaging and geographic mapping tools to detect unregistered rooftop solar systems across South Africa. These systems, known as Small-Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG), are now under stricter scrutiny as Eskom and municipalities ramp up regulatory enforcement.

Solar panels, which must face the sun, are easily detectable via satellite. These images will be cross-checked with national registration databases to identify non-compliant installations. Rein Snoeck Henkemans, CEO of Alumo Energy, warns that this signals a nationwide compliance push, which could result in widespread fines. Homeowners who installed solar systems during load-shedding must ensure their systems are correctly registered with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), especially if the system is under 100kW and grid-connected.

To ease compliance, Eskom has waived registration fees until March 2026. However, registration, a valid Certificate of Compliance (CoC), and the use of qualified installers remain mandatory. Failing to meet these standards can lead to disconnection, retroactive charges, or insurance and property sale complications.

Read Also;

https://trendsnafrica.com/sa-households-benefit-as-eskom-extends-no-cost-solar-registration-until-2026/

  1. Check registration requirements: Systems under 100kW and tied to the grid must be registered.
  2. Ensure CoC certification: Legal compliance and insurance depend on this document.
  3. Use certified installers: Verify credentials with the Department of Labour or ECA.

Snoeck Henkemans also warned against hiring unqualified “bakkie-brigade” installers, whose poor workmanship can pose safety and legal risks.