In an effort to ease the financial burden on low-income households and improve service delivery, City Power has launched its Free Basic Electricity (FBE) programme. Starting in 2025, this initiative will provide qualifying residents with 50 kWh of free electricity each month, aiming to alleviate energy poverty and reduce reliance on illegal connections. The deadline to register for Free Basic Electricity is 31 July 2025, so it’s essential for eligible households to apply before this date.
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The government designed the Free Basic Electricity programme to ensure that every South African citizen has access to a minimum amount of electricity, regardless of income. City Power’s initiative in Johannesburg is a significant step toward addressing the financial strain many low-income households face due to rising electricity prices.
This programme will offer 50 kWh of free electricity each month to qualifying residents. The initiative primarily targets residents who are registered with the City of Johannesburg’s Expanded Social Package (ESP) or the indigent register. The goal is to assist households in managing energy needs, provide relief to struggling families, and reduce the illegal connections that have historically burdened Johannesburg’s power grid.
The free allocation of electricity will cover essential needs such as lighting, small appliances, and cooking, especially for households that face financial challenges. With electricity prices on the rise, this programme offers critical support for residents who struggle to meet their energy demands.
Relief for Vulnerable Communities
The FBE initiative is not only about providing financial relief but also about improving access to safe and reliable electricity. By providing free electricity, City Power aims to help 130,000 low-income households across Johannesburg. This initiative is expected to help families who are often unable to afford basic utilities, providing a more affordable and sustainable way of meeting their energy needs.
As Tshifularo Mashava, CEO of City Power, explains: “Access to electricity is not a luxury, but a key feature required to support social and economic upliftment. This programme is not just about addressing the high levels of meter tampering and illegal connections; it’s about restoring dignity by ensuring that there’s greater access to essential services.”
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Who Qualifies for Free Basic Electricity?
To qualify for the Free Basic Electricity benefit, residents must meet the following criteria:
- South African Citizenship: The programme is open only to South African citizens.
- Monthly Household Income: Household income must not exceed R7,503.01 per month to qualify.
- ESP or Indigent Registration: Applicants must be registered on the City of Johannesburg’s Expanded Social Package (ESP) or indigent register.
- Required Documentation: Applicants need to provide identification documents (ID or passport), proof of residence, and a recent municipal bill.
Additionally, eligible residents will be exempt from the R230 monthly electricity surcharge and will also receive free replacement of damaged, tampered, or bypassed meters, without penalty, during the programme period.
How to Apply for Free Basic Electricity in Johannesburg
The application process is straightforward, and it’s important to complete the registration before the deadline to register for Free Basic Electricity on 31 July 2025. Here’s how you can apply:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure that your household income falls below the required threshold and that you are a registered indigent or ESP recipient.
- Gather Documents: Collect the necessary documents, including a valid ID, proof of residence, and a recent electricity bill.
- Submit Your Application: You can apply by visiting your local City Power or municipal office, or by completing the online registration on the City of Johannesburg’s website.
- Confirmation: Once your registration is processed, you will be notified if you qualify and when your 50 kWh allocation will begin.
It’s vital to register early to avoid missing out on this valuable support. If you miss the registration deadline, you may not be able to access the free electricity allocation.
The Importance of the Free Basic Electricity Programme
The Free Basic Electricity programme is a lifeline for many households in Johannesburg. With rising living costs, electricity has become a significant expense for many families. By providing 50 kWh of free electricity each month, the programme helps to alleviate the financial strain on households, enabling them to use energy for basic needs without worrying about soaring electricity bills.
Furthermore, the initiative addresses longstanding issues with illegal electricity connections, which have strained the city’s power infrastructure. By offering a legitimate, affordable source of electricity, City Power hopes to reduce the incidence of power theft and illegal connections, which have been costly for both residents and the municipality.
The Future of Electricity Access in Johannesburg
City Power’s commitment to providing free electricity marks a significant shift towards more inclusive energy policies in Johannesburg. As the programme continues to evolve, it will hopefully pave the way for more sustainable and equitable electricity access for all residents, regardless of income level.
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Don’t Miss the Deadline: Apply Before 31 July 2025
The deadline to register for Free Basic Electricity is 31 July 2025, so it’s crucial for eligible Johannesburg residents to register before time runs out. If you meet the criteria, don’t wait, apply for this valuable support as soon as possible.
For more information on how to register or check eligibility, visit the official City Power website or contact your local municipal office.
