Cape Town has launched an initiative allowing residential households to earn cash for the surplus solar power generated by their systems.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis unveiled the programme during the launch of the City’s Energy Strategy at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
The Cash for Power initiative marks a significant step towards decentralising the city’s energy supply and fostering community participation in combatting loadshedding.
Residents now have the opportunity to contribute to the city’s power grid while earning additional income, providing a win-win solution for both the environment and household finances.
Under this initiative, households with solar PV generation systems can apply to sell their excess solar power to the City, receiving actual cash payments instead of merely offsetting their municipal bills. The application process for the first round is currently open until 8 March, offering residents a chance to capitalise on their solar investments.
Also read: Surge in returning South African expats boosts Cape Town property market
Mayor Hill-Lewis emphasised the importance of resident and business engagement in achieving the city’s energy goals, stressing the collective effort required to transition towards reliable and sustainable energy sources.
Through programmes like Cash for Power and Power Heroes, which enables households to remotely manage power usage, residents can actively contribute to loadshedding mitigation efforts.
The City’s Energy Strategy outlines a comprehensive roadmap towards achieving energy sustainability by 2050, with short-term plans aimed at protecting against Eskom loadshedding stages up to 2026.
By diversifying the power supply and leveraging renewable energy sources, Cape Town aims to secure its energy future while addressing energy poverty and optimising energy use across the city.
To apply for Cash for Power, residential customers with approved grid-tied solar systems can submit their applications by 8 March. Successful applicants will enter into a three-year contract with the City, paving the way for a mutually beneficial partnership in advancing Cape Town’s energy resilience.
For more information on the Cash for Power programme and to apply, visit the City of Cape Town’s website.
Also read:
Picture: City of Cape Town