Cape Town Solar

SSEG registration guide

How to register solar panels with the City of Cape Town

Every solar system connected to the City's grid must be registered as a Small-Scale Embedded Generator (SSEG). Here's how it works — and why it's already included in every Cape Town Solar package.

Ask us about registration

The registration process, step by step

  1. 1

    Use approved equipment

    Your inverter must appear on the City's list of approved inverters for grid-tied use. We only install inverters that qualify.

  2. 2

    Design and application

    Before or as the system is installed, an SSEG application is submitted to the City with the system details, single-line diagram and equipment specifications.

  3. 3

    Installation by a registered electrician

    The system must be installed by a qualified, registered electrical contractor who issues a Certificate of Compliance (COC).

  4. 4

    Commissioning sign-off

    Once installed, the commissioning documentation and COC are submitted so the City can approve the system.

  5. 5

    Meter and feed-in (optional)

    If you want to export surplus power and earn credits, the City may need to change your meter to one suited to SSEG feed-in.

Requirements change from time to time — always check the City of Cape Town's current SSEG rules, or let us do it for you.

We handle it for you

  • Approved inverters only
  • Application paperwork and diagrams
  • Certificate of Compliance
  • Commissioning submission to the City

SSEG registration is included in every installed package. On its own it costs R4 500 ex VAT for homes up to 15kW and R5 500 ex VAT above 15kW. Commercial systems are priced by size.

See our packages

Common questions

Do I have to register my solar system?

Yes. The City of Cape Town requires every small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) system connected to its electrical network to be authorised — including hybrid systems with batteries, even if you don't plan to export power.

What happens if I don't register?

Unregistered systems can be in breach of the City's electricity by-laws, may lead to penalties or disconnection, and can cause problems when selling your home or claiming insurance.

Can I sell power back to the City?

Registered customers can apply to feed surplus electricity back into the grid and receive credits, subject to the City's current SSEG tariff and meter requirements.

How long does it take?

Turnaround depends on the City's processing time. Submitting complete, correct documents the first time is the biggest factor — that's what we handle for you.