How to Apply for an Electricity Connection
Whether you are building a new home or moving into a property that has never had electricity, you need to apply for a new connection. In South Africa this process is handled either by Eskom directly or by your local municipality, depending on where you live.
Who Handles Your Electricity Supply?
South Africa has a dual supply system. Eskom supplies electricity directly to customers in many rural areas and some urban areas. However, most metropolitan and large urban municipalities buy electricity in bulk from Eskom and then distribute it to residents under their own name.
Before you apply, check whether your area is supplied directly by Eskom or by your municipality. You can call the Eskom customer care line on 08600 ESKOM (37566) or visit www.eskom.co.za to check your supply area.
Documents You Will Need
Regardless of whether you apply through Eskom or your municipality, you will generally need the following documents.
- Certified copy of your South African ID or valid passport
- Proof of ownership or a lease agreement for the property
- A site plan or sketch showing the location of the property
- Completed application form from Eskom or the municipality
- Proof of payment for the connection fee (where applicable)
- Certificate of Compliance (CoC) issued by a registered electrician for the internal wiring
The Application Process
- Obtain the correct application form from Eskom or your local municipality offices.
- Complete all sections in full and attach all required documents.
- Submit the application at the relevant offices or via the online portal where available.
- An inspector will visit the property to assess the connection requirements.
- You will receive a quotation for the cost of the connection.
- Pay the quoted connection fee and keep your receipt.
- Eskom or the municipality will schedule the physical connection work.
- Once connected, your meter will be installed and activated.
Eskom customer care: 08600 ESKOM (37566). Fault reporting: 0800 111 155. Website: www.eskom.co.za
Connection Fees
Connection fees vary depending on the distance from the nearest supply point, the capacity of supply required, and whether the area is urban or rural. Standard residential connections are typically cheaper than commercial or industrial ones.
Indigent households that qualify for the free basic services programme may have connection fees subsidised. Ask at your municipality about indigent support when you apply.
Electricity meter tampering is a criminal offence under Section 22 of the Electricity Regulation Act. Offenders face fines and imprisonment.
Certificate of Compliance
Before Eskom or the municipality will connect power to your premises, the internal electrical installation must be inspected and a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) must be issued by a registered electrician. This is a legal requirement under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Do not attempt to wire your own property without a qualified, registered electrician. An invalid CoC can result in your connection being refused and may invalidate your home insurance.
How Long Does It Take?
Processing times vary. In urban areas with existing infrastructure nearby, a connection can take between two and eight weeks after payment. In rural areas where new infrastructure must be built, the process can take several months.
If you have not received feedback within the stated timeframe, follow up with the relevant office using your reference number.