Free Electricity Units – In a surprising yet welcome move, the South African government has announced a new energy subsidy program aimed at helping low-income households in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), and the Western Cape. The initiative will provide free electricity units to eligible residents starting this month. This is part of a broader effort to reduce the cost of living and promote equitable energy access amid rising tariffs and economic pressure on vulnerable communities.
What Is the Free Electricity Units Subsidy About?
The government’s new subsidy plan is part of the Free Basic Electricity (FBE) program, which aims to provide 50kWh to 100kWh of free electricity per household each month to those who qualify. This rollout is being enhanced across key provinces including Gauteng, KZN, and the Western Cape, where energy poverty is most prevalent.
Key Features:
- Up to 100kWh free electricity units per month
- Available only to indigent households registered with local municipalities
- Aimed at reducing household energy costs
- Part of broader social relief initiatives
Who Qualifies for Free Electricity Units in 2025?
The program is specifically designed for low-income and indigent households. Qualification criteria are managed by municipalities and vary slightly depending on the province or local district.
Eligibility Criteria Include:
- Registered on the municipal indigent list
- Monthly household income below R3,500
- No other energy subsidies or support from government
- Usage of prepaid electricity meters
Important:
Residents must ensure their households are registered with their municipal indigent database to receive these units.
Monthly Free Units Based on Household Category
| Household Category | Income Range | Free Units Provided | Meter Type | Province | Must Register With | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indigent | Below R3,500 | 50 – 100 kWh | Prepaid | Gauteng | Local Municipality | Monthly |
| Pensioner Households | Grant-only income | 60 – 100 kWh | Prepaid | KZN | Local Ward Offices | Monthly |
| Informal Settlements | N/A | 50 kWh | Shared Prepaid | Western Cape | Local Councillor Office | Monthly |
| RDP Households | Below R3,500 | 100 kWh | Prepaid | All Provinces | Municipality Housing Dept | Monthly |
| Households with Disability | Grant-supported | 75 – 100 kWh | Prepaid | All Provinces | Social Development Office | Monthly |
| Jobless Families | Unemployed | 50 kWh | Prepaid | KZN | Local Government Office | Monthly |
| Old Age Homes | Non-profit | Variable | Bulk Metered | Western Cape | Housing and Energy Dept | Monthly |
Documents Required for Registration:
- South African ID copy
- Proof of residence or municipal account
- Proof of income or SASSA card
- Municipal indigent application form
Where to Apply for Free Units
- Local Municipality Customer Centre
- Community-based Energy Offices
- Online indigent registration (available in some metros)
Popular Municipalities Offering Enhanced FBE:
- City of Johannesburg
- eThekwini Municipality
- City of Cape Town
- Tshwane Metro
- Ekurhuleni Municipality
How to Check Balance or Claim Free Units:
- Use municipal prepaid meter code (e.g. 130 or *123#)
- Request via municipality call centres
- Visit ward councillor office
Latest Expansion:
The government confirmed the subsidy would be expanded to cover 200,000+ new homes in May 2025 across the three provinces.
Expected Savings for Households (May 2025)
| Province | Avg Electricity Cost Saved | No. of Beneficiary Households | Total Units Provided |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | R130 – R200/month | 450,000+ | 45 million kWh |
| KwaZulu-Natal | R120 – R180/month | 380,000+ | 38 million kWh |
| Western Cape | R100 – R160/month | 320,000+ | 32 million kWh |
Important Notes:
- Unused units do not carry forward to the next month
- This subsidy is not available for high-consumption households
- Prepaid meters are mandatory for access to free units
How to Appeal If You Were Left Out
If you’re eligible but did not receive the benefit:
- Visit your local municipality office with documents
- Request a review or appeal form
- Provide a written explanation and proof of eligibility
- You may also call the energy department numbers listed below
FAQs – Free Electricity Units
Q1: Is this a permanent subsidy?
A: Currently, it’s part of the monthly FBE support, but additional units under this specific program may be seasonal or reviewed based on budget.
Q2: Can I get this if I’m staying in a rented room?
A: Yes, if your household is indigent and uses a registered prepaid meter, you can qualify.
Q3: How will I know if I’ve received the free units?
A: The voucher/token will appear on your prepaid slip, or you can check using the USSD code from your electricity provider.
Q4: Do I need to reapply every month?
A: No, but you must renew your indigent status annually.
Q5: What if I don’t have an ID?
A: Speak to your local ward councillor or Home Affairs about temporary documentation.
Departmental Contact Details
Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE)
Phone: 0860 111 011
Website: www.energy.gov.za
Email: [email protected]
City of Johannesburg Electricity Department
Phone: 0860 562 874
Website: www.joburg.org.za
City of Cape Town Energy Directorate
Phone: 0800 220 440
Website: www.capetown.gov.za
eThekwini Municipality Energy Services
Phone: 080 13 13 111
Website: www.durban.gov.za
Conclusion of Free Electricity Units
The expansion of the Free Basic Electricity subsidy in Gauteng, KZN, and the Western Cape is a major step forward in helping residents cope with the rising cost of living. By delivering 50 to 100 free electricity units per month to qualifying households, the government is making essential power more accessible and affordable. Those who meet the criteria are strongly encouraged to register immediately to ensure they don’t miss out on this life-changing benefit.
