Free Electricity – In a landmark move to uplift struggling South African families, the government has announced a renewed rollout of Free Basic Electricity (FBE) for low-income households starting August 2025. This initiative, aimed at easing the burden of rising utility costs, allows eligible families to receive a set number of free electricity units every month. With living expenses surging and many still recovering from the financial impact of inflation and unemployment, this program is a critical lifeline for millions. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the FBE program, who qualifies, how to register in August, and what documents are required.
What is the Free Basic Electricity (FBE) Program?
The Free Basic Electricity program is a government-backed service that provides a limited amount of free electricity to qualifying households each month. It is part of South Africa’s broader Free Basic Services initiative.
Key Benefits:
- Helps low-income families reduce electricity expenses
- Supports the use of safer and cleaner energy sources
- Encourages basic energy access for cooking, lighting, and essential appliances
How Much Free Electricity Will You Get?
Each qualifying household will receive between 50 kWh to 100 kWh of free electricity per month, depending on the municipality and usage level. Here’s an indicative table:
| Municipality | Free Units (kWh) | Eligibility Type | Recharge Option | Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| City of Johannesburg | 60 kWh | Lifeline Tariff Households | Prepaid/Token Meter | Valid for 30 days |
| Cape Town Metro | 60–100 kWh | Registered Indigents | Prepaid Meter | Monthly |
| eThekwini (Durban) | 75 kWh | Pensioners, Low-Income | Prepaid/Postpaid | Automatic monthly credit |
| Ekurhuleni Metro | 100 kWh | Poor & Disabled Households | Prepaid Meter | Monthly rollover allowed |
| Tshwane (Pretoria) | 50 kWh | Lifeline Tariff | Smart/Prepaid Meter | Must claim within month |
| Nelson Mandela Bay | 75 kWh | Informal Settlements | Prepaid Voucher | Monthly |
| Mangaung (Bloemfontein) | 60 kWh | Indigent Program Members | Manual Collection | Must renew each month |
Who is Eligible for Free Electricity in August 2025?
Not every household qualifies automatically. The eligibility is based on income levels, housing status, and other criteria set by your municipality.
General Eligibility Criteria:
- Total household income below R3,500 per month
- Residence in an informal settlement, RDP house, or subsidized dwelling
- Registered on your municipality’s indigent support register
- Valid South African ID
- Prepaid electricity meter (or in some areas, smart meter)
- Not already receiving similar government energy assistance
How to Register for Free Electricity in August
Many municipalities are making August the priority registration month for new and returning applicants. You can register online or in-person depending on your area.
Step-by-Step Registration Process:
- Visit Your Municipality Website or Office
- Check for “Free Basic Electricity” or “Indigent Support” section
- Collect or Download the Application Form
- Forms available online or from your ward councilor
- Fill in Your Household Details
- Names, ID numbers, income details of all members
- Attach Supporting Documents
- ID copies, proof of address, income declaration, prepaid meter number
- Submit at the Nearest Service Centre
- Or upload online where e-services are available
- Receive Approval SMS/Notice
- Most applications are reviewed within 14 working days
- Start Claiming Monthly Free Units
- Use your prepaid meter/token to load them each month
Required Documents for August Registration
Make sure all documents are clear and up-to-date to avoid delays in approval.
| Required Document | Details Needed |
|---|---|
| South African ID | Of applicant and all adult household members |
| Proof of Income | Payslips or sworn affidavit of unemployment |
| Municipal Account (if any) | Latest statement or proof of no account |
| Prepaid Meter Number | Available on your meter or old token slip |
| Proof of Residence | Utility bill, lease, or letter from ward office |
Important Dates for August 2025 FBE Registration
Mark these key dates to ensure timely application and benefit activation:
| Date Range | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1–10 August 2025 | Walk-in Registrations Begin |
| 11–20 August 2025 | Mobile Teams Visit Informal Settlements |
| 21–31 August 2025 | Deadline for Document Submission |
| From 1 September 2025 | Free Electricity Distribution Starts |
How to Load Free Units on Prepaid Meter
Once approved, households can claim free electricity every month using simple steps on their prepaid meter.
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Steps:
- Dial the electricity meter number/code
- Enter the free token provided via SMS or printed slip
- Confirm by pressing the OK/Enter button
- Your free units will reflect instantly
What Happens If You Miss the August Deadline?
Households that miss the August registration can still apply later, but will only start receiving benefits from the month of approval. Those registered late may face delays due to bulk processing in September and October.
Can You Register on Behalf of Someone Else?
Yes, a family member or ward councilor can assist if the beneficiary is elderly or disabled. A signed authorization letter and their documents must be submitted together.
FAQs on Free Electricity for Low-Income Households
Q1. How many free units will I receive monthly?
You may receive between 50 kWh and 100 kWh depending on your municipality.
Q2. Do I need to reapply every month?
No, but you must remain eligible. Some municipalities require revalidation every 6 or 12 months.
Q3. Can I get free electricity if I use a smart meter?
Yes, as long as you meet all other eligibility criteria and your meter supports FBE.
Q4. What if I don’t have any income?
You can submit a sworn affidavit of unemployment with your application.
Q5. Is this benefit available to all South African citizens?
Only to qualifying low-income households registered under their municipality’s indigent support program.
