In a significant step towards energy independence and citizen empowerment, the City of Cape Town has launched a new, more affordable electricity meter, making it easier for residents to participate in its pioneering ‘Cash for Power’ program. This initiative allows homeowners to sell their surplus solar power directly back to the municipal grid.
Lowering the Barrier to Entry with Cape Town’s New, Affordable Solar Power Meter
On May 10, 2024, the city unveiled the single-phase AMI feed-in meter, a crucial piece of technology for its Small-Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG) initiative. Priced at R6,043 including VAT, the new device is approximately 40% cheaper than the previous three-phase model, which cost R10,508. This substantial cost reduction is designed to democratize access to the renewable energy market for a greater number of Capetonians.
“The City will purchase as much solar power as households and businesses can provide under the Cash for Power program,” stated Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis. “This initiative not only adds essential kilowatts to our grid but also puts money back into the pockets of Capetonians.”
A Proven and Growing Success with Cape Town’s New, Affordable Solar Power Meter
Cape Town stands as the first metropolitan area in the country to offer cash payments for surplus power from small-scale producers. The program has already demonstrated considerable success. As of April 1, 2024, a total of 1,537 sellers—comprising 910 residential and 627 commercial/industrial participants—were actively benefiting. Since the 2022/23 financial year, these producers have collectively earned over R30.8 million, primarily in the form of municipal bill credits.
The system is straightforward: surplus energy from a resident’s solar PV system first credits their municipal account down to a zero balance. Any additional credit generated beyond that is then eligible for a cash payout upon application. While businesses have enjoyed this benefit since June 2023, it is now fully available to households as well.
“This ultimately advances our larger objective of gradually putting an end to load shedding in Cape Town,” Mayor Hill-Lewis added, highlighting the program’s strategic importance.
How to Participate with Cape Town’s New, Affordable Solar Power Meter
Residents with authorized grid-tied solar PV systems can acquire the new meter through their SSEG application process or a new Service Connection request. It is important for prospective sellers to note that the new meter is designed for single-phase connections; three-phase customers will require a different metering solution.
Once the correct meter is installed, customers can immediately begin exporting their excess energy to the grid. The credits are automatically applied to their accounts, and they can apply for cash payouts during specified windows. To further simplify the process, the City has also introduced a new online portal for SSEG system registration, advancing its commitment to sustainable energy solutions and community resilience.
Sources
- Cape Town unveils cheaper meter to sell solar power back to the City
- Cape Town pays for Domestic Solar Power – NRS/SSEG Regulations
- How To Sell Electricity Back To The Grid With Net Metering & Cash …
- cheaper electricity meter – City of Cape Town
- Cape Town unveils cheaper meter to sell power back to the City
