City Power Johannesburg has introduced a new six-step application process for Small Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG), drawing sharp criticism from Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse over concerns of added bureaucracy.

The revised system applies to residents and businesses installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. According to City Power, the process is designed to improve compliance and ensure installations meet municipal safety standards. The utility stressed that no solar system may be installed without prior authorisation.

Under the new framework, applicants must first secure an electricity supply notification number before submitting a formal PV application. This is followed by a municipal site inspection prior to installation. Once installed, users must submit a Certificate of Compliance and commissioning documentation, then wait for both pre-approval and final approval from the utility.

However, OUTA argues the process introduces unnecessary complexity at a time when many South Africans are turning to solar power out of necessity. The organisation says households and businesses are investing in alternative energy due to unreliable supply and rising electricity costs, not as a luxury.

OUTA CEO Wayne Duvenage criticised the additional steps, saying they create avoidable delays, increased costs and administrative burdens. He noted that certified electricians already issue compliance documentation aligned with national safety standards, making further municipal approvals excessive.

The organisation also raised concerns about inefficiencies, claiming that many previous SSEG applications submitted to City Power remain unprocessed. It warned that expanding requirements without improving capacity could worsen existing bottlenecks.

Beyond Johannesburg, OUTA highlighted inconsistencies across municipalities, which complicate compliance for both consumers and installers. It has urged stakeholders, including Eskom and the City of Cape Town, to adopt a more streamlined and consistent national approach.