National Disconnect Solar Day - Friday 30 May 2025

The Issue

On Friday 30 May 2025 every solar and backup power installation will switch to Eskom power. 

From 8am to 6pm we will show Eskom that it is unable to supply power to everyone without us. 

In recent years, South Africa has seen a significant increase in Small-scale Embedded Generation (SSEG) systems, primarily led by solar energy installations. These systems contribute to the national power grid, reducing the burden on Eskom, the primary electricity supplier, particularly during peak demand periods. Despite their contributions, SSEG systems are often faced with unfair tariff structures that penalize rather than reward their role in sustainable electricity generation.

A National Disconnect Solar Day aims to highlight the critical role that SSEG systems play in energy supply. On this day, SSEG operators across the country will simultaneously disconnect their systems from the grid. This initiative is more than just a symbolic gesture; it underscores the need for Eskom and regulatory authorities to recognize and reward the contributions of SSEG to national energy security.

It is crucial for Eskom to reevaluate its tariff structures in a manner that incentivizes the use of renewable energy, rather than stymieing its growth. Rewarding SSEG systems with a more equitable tariff can drive further investment in sustainable technologies, which are imperative to achieving a cleaner and more resilient energy system in South Africa.

With the escalating impacts of climate change, and the country's commitment to reducing carbon emissions, promoting solar and other renewable energies should be a priority, rather than an afterthought. By supporting this petition, you are advocating for fair energy policies and helping to forge a path towards a sustainable future.

Sign this petition to stand up for fair treatment of SSEG systems and push for a just tariff structure that encourages renewable energy usage.

1

The Issue

On Friday 30 May 2025 every solar and backup power installation will switch to Eskom power. 

From 8am to 6pm we will show Eskom that it is unable to supply power to everyone without us. 

In recent years, South Africa has seen a significant increase in Small-scale Embedded Generation (SSEG) systems, primarily led by solar energy installations. These systems contribute to the national power grid, reducing the burden on Eskom, the primary electricity supplier, particularly during peak demand periods. Despite their contributions, SSEG systems are often faced with unfair tariff structures that penalize rather than reward their role in sustainable electricity generation.

A National Disconnect Solar Day aims to highlight the critical role that SSEG systems play in energy supply. On this day, SSEG operators across the country will simultaneously disconnect their systems from the grid. This initiative is more than just a symbolic gesture; it underscores the need for Eskom and regulatory authorities to recognize and reward the contributions of SSEG to national energy security.

It is crucial for Eskom to reevaluate its tariff structures in a manner that incentivizes the use of renewable energy, rather than stymieing its growth. Rewarding SSEG systems with a more equitable tariff can drive further investment in sustainable technologies, which are imperative to achieving a cleaner and more resilient energy system in South Africa.

With the escalating impacts of climate change, and the country's commitment to reducing carbon emissions, promoting solar and other renewable energies should be a priority, rather than an afterthought. By supporting this petition, you are advocating for fair energy policies and helping to forge a path towards a sustainable future.

Sign this petition to stand up for fair treatment of SSEG systems and push for a just tariff structure that encourages renewable energy usage.

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Petition created on 30 April 2025