Who is eligible to apply for a new electrical connection with eThekwini Electricity?
Property owners or proxy given to representative, and businesses within the eThekwini Municipality can apply for a new electrical connection.
What documents are required to apply for a new connection?
Identity Document (ID) (or passport) of property owner. Organisations require CIPC registration documents, director's ID and letter of authority. Trust entities require documents approved by the high court, trustees IDs and resolution letter from trustees.
Proof of property ownership (e.g., title deed, rates account). Letter from councillor/induna/chief stating who is the owner of the property.
New applications: Approved building plan showing preferred meter location
Locality sketch (informal or rural address with landmarks e.g. road, shop, transformer etc.)
Ensure all municipal accounts are paid up with no debt
Completed application forms as provided by eThekwini Electricity.
How can I apply for an electrical connection?
Applications can be submitted in person at eThekwini Electricity customer service centers.
For certain services, online applications may be available through the eThekwini Municipality's official website.
What types of connections are available?
Residential connections for households.
Commercial connections for businesses.
Industrial connections for manufacturing and large-scale operations.
Temporary connections for construction sites or events.
How long does it take to get a new connection?
The processing time varies depending on the type of connection and completeness of the application.
Generally, it may take several weeks from the submission of a complete application to the activation of the service.
Technical and Load-Related Questions
What is meant by "load requirement"?
The load requirement refers to the total electrical demand (measured in kilovolt-amperes, kVA) that your premises will require.
How is the load requirement determined?
A qualified electrician can assess and calculate the expected load based on the appliances and equipment to be used on the premises.
What is the difference between single-phase and three-phase connections?
Single-phase connections are typically used for residential properties with lower power demands.
Three-phase connections are suitable for commercial and industrial properties with higher power requirements.
Billing and Charges Questions
What are the charges for a new connection?
There is no cost to submit or make the application.
Charges may include connection fees, material, labour and security deposits etc. as per the latest tariff booklet.
The exact fees depend on the type of connection and load requirements.
Are there any subsidies or discounts available?
Certain indigent customers may qualify for free basic electricity, such as 65kWh per month.
Eligibility criteria apply, and customers should inquire with eThekwini Electricity for more details.
How is the security deposit calculated?
The security deposit is typically based on the estimated monthly consumption and the type of connection.
Metering and Installation Questions
Who provides the electricity meter?
eThekwini Electricity supplies and installs the appropriate meter for your connection.
Can I use my own meter?
No, only meters provided and installed by eThekwini Electricity are permitted to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Who is responsible for the maintenance of the connection?
eThekwini Electricity is responsible for maintaining the service line and meter up to the point of supply.
The customer is responsible for the internal wiring and electrical infrastructure beyond the meter.
Post-Connection Questions
How can I check the status of my application?
You can contact eThekwini Electricity's customer service center for updates on your application status.
What should I do if my application is rejected?
Review the reasons provided for rejection, address any issues or missing information, and consider reapplying with the corrected details.
How can I upgrade or downgrade my connection in the future?
Submit a formal request to eThekwini Electricity detailing the changes in your load requirements.
An assessment will be conducted, and additional fees may apply.
What should I do if there’s a delay in service activation?
Contact eThekwini Electricity's customer service center to inquire about the delay and receive guidance on any further actions required.
