EV Rebates & Green Discounts – In a landmark move to combat climate change and accelerate the adoption of eco-friendly technologies, the South African government has officially rolled out the October 2025 Climate Law Update. This bold policy shift introduces a comprehensive set of electric vehicle (EV) rebates, solar power discounts, and city-level green initiatives — now extended to every major metro in the country. From Cape Town to Johannesburg, Durban to Bloemfontein, consumers and small businesses alike can now access significant financial support for switching to cleaner, greener alternatives. Backed by a budget of over R12 billion for the next fiscal year, the update is part of the broader Climate Action Plan 2030. The initiative includes R80,000 in EV subsidies, up to R40,000 in home solar rebates, and discounted electricity rates for verified green tech users. The goal? To cut South Africa’s carbon emissions by 37% before 2030 while easing the financial burden on environmentally conscious citizens. The Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) will oversee implementation, working closely with municipalities, the Department of Energy, and key automakers. Eligibility criteria have also been simplified — and for the first time, even second-hand EV buyers are eligible for rebates of up to R35,000. A national awareness campaign is also underway to encourage mass participation and ensure transparency in benefit distribution. Let’s take a closer look at who qualifies, how to apply, rebate amounts by city, and what this means for ordinary South Africans looking to save money and the planet.
Who Qualifies for EV Rebates and Green Discounts?
All residents of major South African metros are now eligible for green benefits under the new climate policy, with varying limits based on household income and energy usage.
- Must be a resident of an approved city (see list below)
- Annual income must be under R850,000 for individuals or R1.2 million for households
- Rebates applicable for new or used EV purchases
- Home solar or water heating installations must be SABS certified
- Rebates are available only once per category per household
- Green electricity discounts are available for pre-paid and post-paid consumers
- Businesses under 100 employees are also eligible for solar and EV tax write-offs
List of Eligible Cities & Benefits for EV Rebates & Green Discounts
The government has prioritised high-density cities and pollution-heavy areas for the first phase of rebates and subsidies.
| City | Max EV Rebate | Solar Rebate | Green Electricity Discount | Business Incentives | Second-Hand EV Benefit | Home Charger Discount | Deadline to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg | R80,000 | R35,000 | 20% on units below 600kWh | Yes | R35,000 | R12,000 | 30 Dec 2025 |
| Cape Town | R75,000 | R40,000 | 22% | Yes | R30,000 | R11,500 | 30 Dec 2025 |
| Durban | R70,000 | R30,000 | 15% | Yes | R32,000 | R10,500 | 30 Dec 2025 |
| Bloemfontein | R68,000 | R28,000 | 18% | No | R28,000 | R9,500 | 30 Dec 2025 |
| Gqeberha | R65,000 | R27,000 | 12% | No | R26,000 | R9,000 | 30 Dec 2025 |
| Polokwane | R60,000 | R25,000 | 10% | Yes | R24,000 | R8,500 | 30 Dec 2025 |
| East London | R58,000 | R22,000 | 14% | Yes | R22,000 | R8,000 | 30 Dec 2025 |
| Kimberley | R50,000 | R20,000 | 10% | No | R18,000 | R7,500 | 30 Dec 2025 |
How to Apply for EV Rebates & Green Discounts
The application process is now fully digital through the government’s Energy Transition Portal, launched on 1 October 2025.
- Visit: www.energyrebate.gov.za
- Create an account using your ID and utility account
- Upload proof of address and household income (latest payslip or tax return)
- Submit quote or invoice for the EV/solar device from approved vendors
- Select the rebate option (upfront rebate or end-of-year tax deduction)
- Approval takes 5–10 working days
- Payment is made directly to your bank or deducted from your vehicle/solar cost
Required Documents
- South African ID (for all adults in the household)
- SARS tax number
- Proof of residence (utility bill or lease)
- Latest bank statement
- Supplier invoice (from approved vendor list)
- Proof of vehicle registration (for EV buyers)
Business Green Incentive Details
Small and medium-sized businesses also stand to benefit under this new law. Tax rebates and procurement incentives are now being extended to encourage businesses to go green.
- Up to R100,000 tax deduction for electric fleet purchases
- 25% deduction on solar installations in commercial spaces
- Accelerated depreciation on green tech
- Municipal fast-tracking for solar permits (within 10 working days)
- 2-year energy audit rebates for SMEs that enroll in the Green Business Registry
Green Business Registry – What You Need
- Must have under 100 employees
- Tax compliant (SARS clearance)
- Valid CIPC registration
- Operating within a designated urban zone
- Upload energy consumption data for last 12 months
- Commit to using 40% renewable energy by 2027
Rebates for Used EV Buyers – New Inclusion
For the first time, second-hand EV buyers are eligible for government subsidies, a huge win for budget-conscious consumers.
- Applies to EVs under 6 years old
- Car must be locally registered and pass green inspection
- Max benefit capped at R35,000
- Rebates only for vehicles from accredited dealerships
- Vehicles must have less than 120,000 km mileage
- Additional R2,500 bonus for purchasing home EV charger alongside
Green Electricity Discount Details
Pre-paid and post-paid electricity users who opt-in for green power plans now enjoy significant savings and perks.
| Electricity Plan | Discount | Available In | Requirement | Green Certification |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Green Prepaid | 15% | All cities | Monthly usage under 600kWh | Yes |
| Eco Saver Postpaid | 20% | Cape Town, JHB | Smart meter installed | Yes |
| Solar Feed-In Package | 18% | Durban, Gqeberha | Rooftop solar with grid tie-in | Yes |
| Community Green Credit | R350/mo | Limited areas | Must enroll in neighborhood program | Yes |
Departmental Contact Details for Help
If you have questions or need in-person assistance, reach out to the following official channels:
| Department | Contact Number | Email Address | Office Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Department of Environment (DEFF) | 0800 123 456 | [email protected] | Mon–Fri, 9AM–5PM |
| Department of Energy | 0861 000 376 | [email protected] | Mon–Fri, 9AM–4:30PM |
| Green Rebate Helpline (Gov Portal) | 0861 789 999 | [email protected] | 7 Days, 8AM–8PM |
| City of Johannesburg Green Desk | 011 555 9876 | [email protected] | Mon–Fri, 8AM–3PM |
| Cape Town Climate Support Centre | 021 444 1000 | [email protected] | Mon–Sat, 9AM–6PM |
These sweeping changes mark a pivotal moment for South Africa’s climate ambitions. With rebates now accessible to everyday citizens and businesses in every major city, the path toward a greener, cleaner economy feels more realistic — and affordable — than ever before.
FAQs of EV Rebates & Green Discounts
Q1. Can I apply for more than one rebate at a time?
Yes, households may apply for both EV and solar rebates but only once per category.
Q2. Are renters eligible for solar rebates?
Yes, with landlord approval and installation in compliance with SABS standards.
Q3. When will the rebate payments reflect?
Rebate disbursements typically occur within 5–10 business days after approval.
Q4. Is there an age limit for second-hand EVs to qualify?
Yes, only EVs under 6 years old with less than 120,000 km qualify.
Q5. Can I use any installer for solar systems?
No, only SABS-certified and government-approved vendors are accepted.