SolarPowerGuide
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Understanding NERSA Registration for Solar PV

Step-by-step guide on registering your solar PV system with NERSA and why it matters for legal compliance and incentives.

Solar installation
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1 MW
Residential Limit
4–6
Week Process
R0
Residential Fee
100%
Incentive Eligible

Introduction

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) oversees licensing and registration for solar PV systems — ensuring legal compliance, safety, and grid stability. Registration is mandatory for grid-tied systems and recommended for off-grid to access incentives like net metering and insurance coverage.

This guide details who needs to register, the step-by-step process, required documents, and benefits — updated for 2025 with municipality-specific requirements.

Who Needs to Register?

Residential systems below 1 MW usually only require registration through the municipality. Larger installations require a full generation license.

Residential (<1 MW)

  • Municipal Registration: Submit to local authority
  • CoC: Certificate of Compliance from electrician
  • Fee: R0–R500 (municipality-dependent)
  • Time: 2–4 weeks

Commercial (>1 MW)

  • Full License: NERSA application + EIA
  • Fee: R10,000–R50,000
  • Time: 6–12 months
  • REIPPPP: For >5 MW projects

Registration Process

Follow these steps for residential systems (most common):

Step Action Documents Timeframe
1. System Design Get quote from SAPVIA installer Site survey, single-line diagram 1–2 weeks
2. Submit Application To municipality (e.g., City Power, eThekwini) Form 1, CoC, inverter specs, panel data 1 week
3. Inspection Municipal electrical inspector As-built drawings, test certificates 2–4 weeks
4. Approval Receive NERSA reference number Approval letter 1 week

Pro Tip:

Use SAPVIA Gold installers — they handle paperwork and get 95% first-time approvals.

Benefits of Registration

Legal compliance, eligibility for feed-in tariffs, net metering, and smoother insurance claims.

Financial Benefits

  • Net Metering: Sell excess to Eskom (up to 50% of consumption)
  • SARS Rebate: 125% Section 12B deduction
  • Municipal Credits: R1.50–R2.50/kWh feed-in
  • Insurance Discounts: 5–10% premium reduction

Legal & Safety

  • CoC Validity: 2 years (renewal required)
  • Grid Export: Legally approved
  • Resale Value: +15% property value
  • Liability Protection: Covered under NRS 097

Common Registration Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake

  • No CoC: Insurers deny claims
  • Wrong Forms: Form 1 vs Form 2 confusion
  • Missing Specs: Inverter NRCS LoA

Solution

  • Use SAPVIA installers
  • Submit complete package
  • Check NRCS database first

Pro Tip:

Start paperwork before installation — delays approval by 4–6 weeks.

Conclusion

Registering with NERSA protects you legally and ensures access to solar incentives. For residential: municipality + CoC. Commercial: full license + EIA. Always use certified installers to avoid fines and delays.