Reach 500K+ monthly visitorsAdvertise Here →
All InstallersFind Solar InstallersBy ProvinceBy CityBy BrandBy ServiceClaim Your Listing (Free)Advertise Your Business
All Solar ProductsComplete SystemsSolar BatteriesSolar InvertersSolar PanelsSolar GeysersSolar LightsWhere to Buy
All BrandsAll BrandsInverter BrandsBattery BrandsPanel BrandsBrand Comparisons
All Load SheddingScheduleCape TownJohannesburgWhat is Load Shedding?Solutions
All Tools & GuidesGuides HubSolar CalculatorSystem Size CalculatorSolar Cost CalculatorCertificationsSolar for Beginners
All MoreAbout UsContact UsAdvertise With UsClaim Listing (Free)
Solar Calculator

NERSA Registration

Last updated: February 2026

The National Energy Regulator requires registration for certain grid-connected solar systems.

Find Certified InstallersAll Certifications

NERSA (National Energy Regulator of South Africa) regulates the energy sector, including embedded generation from solar PV. Grid-tied solar systems above certain thresholds require NERSA registration. This is separate from municipal approval and is part of the regulatory framework for distributed energy.

What is NERSA?

NERSA is the regulatory authority for electricity, gas, and petroleum in South Africa. For solar, NERSA oversees the registration of embedded generation facilities (solar systems that connect to the grid). This ensures proper oversight of distributed energy and grid stability.

NERSA is the regulatory authority for electricity, gas, and petroleum in South Africa. For solar, NERSA oversees the registration of embedded generation facilities (solar systems that connect to the grid). This ensures proper oversight of distributed energy and grid stability.

When NERSA Registration is Required

sizeUnder 100kW
requirementRegistration only (no license)
processOnline registration
size100kW - 1MW
requirementRegistration + notification
processFormal application
size1MW - 10MW
requirementGeneration license
processLicense application
sizeOver 10MW
requirementFull generation license
processDetailed application

Are You a Solar Installer?

Free

Claim your free listing and reach 500K+ monthly visitors looking for solar solutions in South Africa. Advertise separately for premium placement.

Claim Listing Free →Advertise with usSee example page →

How to Register with NERSA

The registration process:

  • Determine your system size and category
  • Gather required documentation (system specs, installer details)
  • Complete the online registration form on NERSA website
  • Submit municipal approval documentation
  • Receive registration confirmation
  • Your installer may handle this for you

NERSA vs Municipal Approval

NERSA registration is different from municipal approval. You need both for a grid-tied system. Municipal approval allows you to connect to your local grid and may enable feed-in tariffs. NERSA registration is a national regulatory requirement. Most residential systems under 100kW only need simple registration, which your installer can often handle as part of the installation.

NERSA registration is different from municipal approval. You need both for a grid-tied system. Municipal approval allows you to connect to your local grid and may enable feed-in tariffs. NERSA registration is a national regulatory requirement. Most residential systems under 100kW only need simple registration, which your installer can often handle as part of the installation.

Related Pages

COC CertificateSSEG GuideGrid-Tied Systems

Get Quotes in Top Metro Areas

Compare claimable and verified installers in South Africa's highest-intent metro markets.

Solar installers in Cape Town, Western CapeSolar installers in Durban, KwaZulu-NatalSolar installers in Johannesburg, GautengSolar installers in Port Elizabeth, Eastern CapeSolar installers in Pretoria, Gauteng

NERSA Registration FAQs

Only grid-tied systems need NERSA registration. Off-grid (standalone) systems that never connect to Eskom or municipal grids don't require NERSA registration.
Many installers include NERSA registration in their service. Ask upfront. For residential systems, it's usually a simple online registration that takes a few days.
Operating an unregistered grid-tied system is technically non-compliant with energy regulations. While enforcement varies, it could cause issues with insurance or if you want to sell excess power.
Certifications prove an installer has the training, insurance, and experience to safely install your solar system. Uncertified installers can void your equipment warranty, create safety hazards, and leave you without recourse if something goes wrong.
Yes. Most certifying bodies have online databases where you can verify membership. We provide direct links to verification databases on each certification page. Always verify before hiring.
Using an uncertified installer can void your equipment warranties, invalidate your home insurance, make you liable for any accidents or damage, and prevent you from getting a COC which is legally required.

Need More Help?

Browse our complete guides and compare prices across all products.

View All CertificationsBuying Guides