Free Electricity Units – In a major relief initiative, the South African government has announced that from July 8, 2025, all registered SASSA beneficiaries will be eligible to receive free electricity units worth R750 per month. This scheme, launched in partnership with Eskom and local municipalities, is aimed at supporting low-income households amid rising utility costs and ongoing economic challenges. The government has introduced this benefit as part of its broader social protection plan, which targets vulnerable groups including pensioners, disabled individuals, child grant recipients, and unemployed beneficiaries of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) program. While similar support existed in limited capacity before, this announcement marks the first time a standardized, high-value (R750/month) electricity grant is being offered nationwide to all qualifying SASSA grant recipients. Applications for the electricity credit began on June 20 and will continue until slots are filled. Since the distribution is capped on a “first-come, first-serve” basis, all eligible SASSA users are urged to act quickly and verify their status through their local municipality or the official Eskom portal. Delays in applying may result in missing out on this month’s allocation. The electricity credit will be provided in the form of prepaid vouchers, directly linked to the beneficiary’s meter number. In areas with post-paid billing systems, the amount will reflect as a deduction in the utility bill. Below, we break down the eligibility criteria, how to apply, and the key regions where this scheme is active.
Who Qualifies for the R750 Free Electricity Units Benefit?
To receive the free electricity units, beneficiaries must fulfill certain conditions laid down by SASSA and their local municipal providers.
- Must be a registered SASSA beneficiary (SRD, pension, disability, child support, or care dependency).
- Monthly income must not exceed the SASSA grant threshold.
- Must have a valid electricity meter number (prepaid or postpaid).
- Must not be receiving other electricity subsidies under Free Basic Electricity (FBE).
- Household must fall under low-income or indigent category (as per municipal database).
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Must apply via approved municipal or Eskom channels.
- Applications must be submitted before July 8 or until all slots are filled.
Free Electricity Units – Additional Documentation Required for Application
To complete the application process, beneficiaries need to have the following documents ready.
- SASSA Card or proof of grant
- South African ID or Smart ID
- Recent electricity bill or prepaid slip (showing meter number)
- Proof of address (municipal or tribal letter accepted)
- Mobile number registered with SASSA
- Signed consent form (available at municipal office)
How and Where to Apply for the Free Electricity Units
Application channels have been set up both online and offline to ensure wide accessibility for all SASSA grant holders.
- Visit your nearest municipal office with documents
- Use the Eskom online portal (www.eskom.co.za/support)
- Contact toll-free Eskom Help Centre: 08600 37566
- SMS your ID + meter number to 32227 (standard rates apply)
- Through official SASSA WhatsApp chatbot
- Visit assigned mobile help desks in rural areas
Free Electricity Units – Timeline of Application and Credit Disbursement
Below is the expected timeline of how the process will flow once an application is submitted.
| Date | Action Taken |
|---|---|
| June 20 | Application window opens |
| July 8 | Final date for submission |
| July 10–12 | Credit eligibility check completed |
| July 13–15 | SMS notifications sent to successful users |
| July 16–20 | Prepaid credit or bill adjustments begin |
| July 25 | Appeals/review window closes |
| August 1 | New cycle begins (for late applicants) |
How Beneficiaries Will Receive R750 Electricity Credits
The benefit is being processed in two formats based on the user’s meter type and area setup. Here’s how recipients will get the free electricity:
- Prepaid Users: Will receive a unique voucher code via SMS to load R750 directly on their meter.
- Postpaid Users: Their July bill will show a R750 deduction under “Government Energy Relief.”
- Smart Meters: Credit will auto-load to meters without needing manual recharge.
- Remote Villages: Mobile teams will assist with recharge codes for isolated areas.
Monthly Rollout Table by Province
Here’s a table showing when each province will begin receiving electricity credits.
| Province | Start Date | Support Helpline |
|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | July 10 | 0800 203 429 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | July 11 | 0800 043 711 |
| Eastern Cape | July 11 | 0800 400 022 |
| Western Cape | July 12 | 0800 220 333 |
| Limpopo | July 13 | 0800 007 441 |
| Mpumalanga | July 13 | 0800 123 456 |
| North West | July 14 | 0800 456 789 |
| Free State | July 15 | 0800 789 321 |
| Northern Cape | July 15 | 0800 111 111 |
Common Reasons Applications Get Rejected
Several applicants were rejected in previous relief programs due to avoidable mistakes. Here are the top disqualification reasons to avoid.
- Incorrect or unlinked meter number
- Mobile number not updated with SASSA
- Already receiving FBE support
- ID mismatch in application form
- Application submitted after deadline
- Tampered or fraudulent meter detected
- Duplicate application from the same household
What To Do If Rejected
If your application is rejected, you can:
- Submit an appeal at your municipality within 5 days
- Call SASSA or Eskom support for revalidation
- Update your mobile or meter details before July 25
- Request manual verification at mobile help desks
Eskom & SASSA Partnership – Key Features of the Scheme
This energy relief effort is part of the July 2025 national poverty alleviation plan and has multiple key features:
- Up to R750 in electricity value per household monthly
- Covers both prepaid and postpaid systems
- Targets over 4.5 million SASSA households
- Limited to one household per grant recipient
- Part of National Energy Relief and Municipal Support Plan
- Can be extended up to 6 months based on demand
Budget Allocation and Municipal Distribution
The government has earmarked over R3.4 billion for this scheme. Here’s a breakdown of budget distribution by province.
| Province | Allocation (Millions) | Target Households |
|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | R580 | 740,000 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | R510 | 680,000 |
| Eastern Cape | R420 | 590,000 |
| Western Cape | R400 | 560,000 |
| Limpopo | R310 | 410,000 |
| Mpumalanga | R280 | 370,000 |
| North West | R240 | 320,000 |
| Free State | R230 | 310,000 |
| Northern Cape | R170 | 240,000 |
Will the R750 Electricity Credit Be Given Monthly?
The initial commitment is for one month, but multiple government officials have confirmed that:
- If the pilot rollout is successful, the scheme may continue monthly for 3–6 months.
- Households may receive reduced amounts (R500 or R300) in future based on Eskom and municipal budgets.
- Further continuation will depend on usage patterns, fraud rates, and funding availability.
Things Beneficiaries Should Keep in Mind
- Use electricity wisely – overuse may disqualify you in the future.
- Save SMS confirmation or credit code safely.
- Don’t attempt to resell or misuse the electricity credit.
- Beware of scams – SASSA and Eskom never ask for upfront fees.
What If I Haven’t Received My Code Yet?
If you’ve applied and still haven’t received your code by July 16:
- Check SMS inbox for missed codes or retries.
- Call the Eskom support number for your province.
- Visit the nearest municipal office or mobile help desk.
- Reconfirm your ID and meter details.
How to Check Application Status?
To check if your application has been approved:
- Visit www.eskom.co.za/status
- Enter your ID number and meter number
- Call the SASSA toll-free line: 0800 60 10 11
- Send a WhatsApp message to the official chatbot
This electricity benefit is a significant opportunity for financially struggling households to receive direct utility relief. With limited slots and a short timeline, early action is critical. SASSA and Eskom have warned that those who delay or submit incorrect details may have to wait until August or beyond for the next round. Eligible citizens are urged to act fast and secure their free R750 credit before the deadline.
FAQs of Free Electricity Units
Q1: Is this benefit for all SASSA grants?
Yes, it covers SRD, old age, disability, child support, and care dependency grants.
Q2: Will I get this electricity credit every month?
Only July 2025 is confirmed now, but it may be extended.
Q3: Can I receive this and the FBE subsidy together?
No, you must choose only one.
Q4: Can I apply on behalf of a family member?
Yes, with consent and correct documentation.
Q5: Is there a deadline for application?
Yes, July 8 or until slots are filled, whichever comes first.