Free Basic Electricity 2025 – Free Basic Electricity (FBE) is a South African government support that gives qualifying low-income households a set amount of free power every month so that essential needs like lighting, charging phones, and cooking can be met. In 2025, the benefit is still administered by municipalities and, in some areas, by Eskom directly. The number of free units you receive each month (for many places it’s around 50 kWh) depends on your local policy, your meter type, and whether your home is grid-connected or using approved non-grid alternatives. FBE is usually linked to the municipal “indigent register,” which is a list of households that meet income and property criteria. If your municipal account or prepaid meter is in your name and you meet the local rules, the free units are either credited automatically to your meter/account or issued as a token. This guide explains who qualifies in 2025 and gives a clear, step-by-step process to apply, plus tips to avoid delays or rejections.
Who Qualifies in 2025 (Eligibility)
Eligibility is determined by your municipality or Eskom (where Eskom supplies you directly). In general, you must be a South African resident living at the service address, and your household must be on—or eligible for—the municipal indigent register. Local rules often include an income threshold per household, a property value cap, or proof that your consumption is consistently low. Pensioners, persons with disabilities, and social-grant recipients commonly qualify if they meet the criteria. The prepaid or postpaid electricity account should normally be in the applicant’s name, with one FBE allocation per household (not per person). Tenants can qualify if the landlord provides consent and the meter/account details are correctly recorded. Informal-settlement residents may qualify where there are legal, metered connections. You must not have illegal connections, and you must keep your details updated. If you are an Eskom direct customer, you typically apply via Eskom’s channels rather than the municipality.
Documents You’ll Need
Prepare clear copies to speed up approval. Most municipalities ask for: a valid South African ID (or passport/asylum/permit where accepted), proof of residence (recent municipal bill, letter from a ward councillor, or formal affidavit), your municipal account number or prepaid meter number, and proof of household income (recent payslips, SASSA award letter, bank statement, or sworn affidavit if unemployed or in the informal sector). Tenants usually add a lease/landlord consent letter. Pensioners and persons with disabilities may attach relevant grant or medical/disability documentation. Some offices require certified copies not older than three months—check locally. If your surname or address differs from the account name, include supporting documents (marriage certificate, affidavit, or deed). Keep a mobile number and email ready for notifications. Having all documents upfront prevents back-and-forth, shortens verification, and makes it easier for field inspectors to confirm occupancy and meter details if a site visit is required.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
1) Confirm your supplier: municipality or Eskom. 2) Download the indigent/FBE application form from the official website or collect it at the customer care centre, revenue office, or ward office. 3) Complete the form in full and attach all documents listed above. 4) Submit in person or via the official email/online portal if available—ask for a reference number. 5) Cooperate with any household verification or meter inspection. 6) Watch for an approval SMS/email and the date your free units will start. 7) Prepaid customers typically receive a monthly FBE token or automatic credit; if a token is issued, load it on your meter as normal. 8) Postpaid customers usually see a monthly credit on the bill. 9) If declined, request reasons in writing and appeal with missing proofs corrected. 10) Re-confirm your indigent status each year (or as your municipality requires) to keep receiving FBE without interruption.
Tips, Renewals, and Common Mistakes
Track your monthly free units early in the month, then plan your top-ups to avoid running out at month-end. If your meter is replaced or renumbered, immediately update your municipality/Eskom; otherwise your FBE may stop. Keep your contact details current to receive token notifications. Renew indigent status annually or when your municipality requests revalidation—set a reminder a month before expiry. Common rejection reasons include: account not in applicant’s name, missing documents, name/address mismatches, income above the local threshold, illegal or shared connections, and duplicate applications at the same address. Always use official channels and beware of “assistants” asking for fees. If you move, submit a new application for the new address. For non-grid areas, ask about Free Basic Alternative Energy options. When in doubt, visit the nearest customer care centre or contact your ward councillor for help with forms, affidavits, and status checks.
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