July 2025 Clean Slate Program – In a landmark decision aimed at easing the burden of debt on vulnerable households, Eskom has officially launched the “Clean Slate Program” starting July 2025. This initiative will see complete cancellation of outstanding electricity bills for low-income families whose arrears are under R6,000. The move comes at a time when South Africa’s poorest communities are grappling with rising energy costs, rolling blackouts, and mounting debts that have made basic access to electricity nearly impossible. Eskom’s Clean Slate Program was first proposed in early 2025 and has now been signed into action by the Department of Public Enterprises and the National Treasury. The program is seen as a critical step to reduce the spiraling energy-related debt in township areas, informal settlements, and rural regions. Households that qualify under specific income and location criteria will benefit from a once-off debt relief, essentially wiping clean their historical electricity debts below R6,000. The decision is part of Eskom’s broader plan to restore energy supply consistency, promote prepaid meter transitions, and encourage long-term responsible consumption among residents. With mounting public pressure and advocacy from civic organizations, this relief is expected to help over 1.2 million households across South Africa, starting this July. Let’s break down who qualifies, how the process works, and what you must do to benefit from this Clean Slate initiative.
Who Qualifies for July 2025 Clean Slate Program?
Only specific households will benefit from this program. Below are the key criteria that determine eligibility:
- Must be a registered Eskom residential customer
- Total outstanding electricity bill must be below R6,000 as of 1 July 2025
- Household income must fall within the low-income bracket as per government definition
- Property must be used for residential purposes only (no business activities)
- Customer must agree to switch to a prepaid meter system
- Must reside in designated low-income or indigent areas
- Should not have benefitted from previous debt cancellation programs in the past 2 years
July 2025 Clean Slate Program – Breakdown of Eligibility Areas and Income Brackets
The government has specified certain townships and rural municipalities where this program will be implemented first.
| Region | Monthly Income Cap | Debt Limit | Prepaid Meter Required | Benefit Effective From |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soweto | R3,500 | R6,000 | Yes | 10 July 2025 |
| Mamelodi | R4,000 | R6,000 | Yes | 12 July 2025 |
| Khayelitsha | R3,000 | R6,000 | Yes | 15 July 2025 |
| Umlazi | R4,500 | R6,000 | Yes | 20 July 2025 |
| Alexandra | R3,200 | R6,000 | Yes | 22 July 2025 |
| Mdantsane | R3,800 | R6,000 | Yes | 25 July 2025 |
| Mitchells Plain | R3,900 | R6,000 | Yes | 28 July 2025 |
| Seshego | R4,100 | R6,000 | Yes | 31 July 2025 |
July 2025 Clean Slate Program – How to Apply for the Bill Cancellation
Eskom has made the application process straightforward, but there are still important steps every household must follow.
- Visit your nearest Eskom customer service office or mobile registration unit
- Provide a valid South African ID or Smart Card
- Submit a proof of income or SASSA grant receipt
- Provide your municipal utility bill or Eskom account reference
- Agree to Eskom’s terms of prepaid meter installation
- Fill out and sign the Clean Slate declaration form
Required Documents Checklist for Applicants
Make sure to carry the following original and photocopied documents when you apply:
| Document | Required? |
|---|---|
| South African ID | Yes |
| Proof of Income (Payslip/SASSA Slip) | Yes |
| Utility Bill (Eskom Statement) | Yes |
| Lease Agreement / Property Document | Optional |
| Bank Statement (Last 3 Months) | Optional |
Important Dates and Implementation Timeline
The Clean Slate Program will roll out in phases. Below is a tentative schedule for implementation by area:
| Phase | Region Covered | Start Date | Last Application Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Soweto, Alexandra | 10 July 2025 | 31 July 2025 |
| 2 | Mamelodi, Umlazi | 12 July 2025 | 5 August 2025 |
| 3 | Khayelitsha, Mdantsane | 15 July 2025 | 8 August 2025 |
| 4 | Mitchells Plain, Seshego | 20 July 2025 | 12 August 2025 |
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you miss the deadline for your area, Eskom has stated there will be no extension. Late applications will be rejected, and debts will remain valid. However, Eskom encourages customers to reach out for possible future relief programs.
- No grace period after deadline
- Debt collections will resume for non-applicants
- Possible disconnection if balances remain unpaid
- You may be blacklisted for future benefits
Impact on Future Bills and Prepaid Transition
Switching to a prepaid meter is mandatory under this initiative. Once your existing debt is cancelled, your home will be transitioned to the prepaid billing system.
- Pay-as-you-go system will replace monthly billing
- No future bill shock or hidden charges
- Ability to track consumption and control usage
- Customers will receive 50 free units monthly (if indigent status confirmed)
- Tampering with the prepaid system will result in full debt reinstatement
Advantages of Prepaid Metering
Prepaid systems offer more than just convenience. Here’s why Eskom insists on them:
- Reduces electricity theft and illegal connections
- Encourages energy-saving behavior
- Helps Eskom manage national grid load
- Immediate disconnection on zero balance, reducing outstanding debt
Additional Benefits for Compliant Households
To further motivate participation, Eskom is offering rewards to early applicants who fully comply with the Clean Slate rules.
R200 Free Electricity Voucher
All successful applicants before 20 July will receive a one-time R200 prepaid electricity voucher credited to their new meter account.
- Voucher valid for 30 days
- Credited automatically post meter activation
- Non-transferrable and not redeemable for cash
Priority Maintenance and No-Disconnection Guarantee
For 6 months post transition, these households will enjoy:
- Priority response on electricity faults and breakdowns
- No disconnection even if meter credit runs out (72-hour grace)
- Monthly energy efficiency tips sent via SMS
The Clean Slate Program is a game-changer for struggling South African households. It provides not only financial relief but also a fresh start in managing energy consumption more efficiently. If you or someone you know qualifies, it is critical to act fast before the regional deadlines close. Visit your nearest Eskom office, gather your documents, and make sure you secure this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for debt cancellation and utility reform.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
1. Who is eligible for this bill cancellation?
Low-income households with electricity debt under R6,000 and who agree to switch to a prepaid meter system.
2. Do I need to apply in person?
Yes, you must visit an Eskom office or mobile unit with required documents.
3. What happens if I owe more than R6,000?
You won’t qualify for the Clean Slate Program if your debt exceeds R6,000.
4. Is prepaid meter installation compulsory?
Yes, switching to a prepaid meter is mandatory to receive the benefit.
5. Will I still get free electricity units after cancellation?
Yes, qualified households will receive 50 free units per month if classified as indigent.