Frequently Asked Questions

In South Africa, Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are required for certain types of commercial, institutional and public-sector buildings that are larger than the minimum floor area thresholds defined in SANS 1544.
This includes facilities such as:
  • Offices
  • Schools and universities
  • Municipal buildings
  • Hospitality buildings (e.g., hotels)
  • Some healthcare or public service buildings

If the building meets the criteria and falls into one of the prescribed categories, the owner must obtain a valid EPC issued by a SANEDI-registered EPC Professional.
SSEG (Small-Scale Embedded Generation) refers to small electricity-generating systems — such as solar PV, small wind turbines, or hybrid systems — that are installed on a property and connected to the municipality’s or Eskom’s electrical grid.
If an SSEG system is grid-tied (even if you export nothing), it usually requires:
  • Engineering review
  • Municipal approval
  • Compliance documentation
  • Metering updates (in some cities)
The timeline depends on:
  • Size of the building
  • Availability and quality of utility and floor-area data
  • Access for on-site assessments

Typical timelines:
  • Simple buildings: 1–2 weeks
  • Large or complex buildings: 3–6 weeks
  • SANEDI submission: Usually processed shortly after certification

Providing complete utility data upfront significantly shortens the process.
For the City of Cape Town, grid-tied SSEG applications typically require:
  1. Single-line diagram (SLD)
  2. Inverter specifications and compliance certificates
  3. Solar panel datasheets
  4. Installation details and system layout
  5. City of Cape Town SSEG application forms
  6. Proof of property ownership or authority to install
  7. Pr. Eng. sign-off (if applicable)
  8. Final commissioning report and test certificates

    9. The exact checklist depends on system type, size, and export capability.
For the City of Cape Town, grid-tied SSEG applications typically require:
  • Meets Eskom’s engineering and safety standards
  • Has been installed correctly
  • Uses certified equipment
  • Is compliant with national wiring regulations (SANS 10142-1)
  • Does not pose risk to the grid or personnel

Although Eskom no longer requires a Pr. Eng. sign-off, the EGI compliance report is still mandatory for legal grid connection.