Eskom’s Free Electricity in 2025: Great news for South Africans! Eskom, the country’s primary electricity provider, has confirmed that the Free Basic Electricity (FBE) program will continue throughout 2025. This initiative ensures that qualifying low-income households get free electricity every month — a huge help as living costs rise.
In this expert guide, you’ll find everything you need to know: who qualifies, how much free electricity you’ll get, how to apply, and how to make the most of it.
Let’s dive in!
Eskom’s Free Electricity in 2025
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Allocation | 50 kWh per household (standard; slight municipal variations) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Registered indigent households using prepaid meters |
| How to Access Free Units | Through USSD codes or authorized vendors like Shoprite |
| Application Process | Apply for indigent status through your local municipality |
| Important Notes | Unclaimed free units expire monthly; indigent status must be renewed annually |
| Official Resource | Eskom Residential Customers Portal |
Eskom’s Free Basic Electricity program remains a lifeline for millions of South African households.
If you qualify, don’t miss your monthly allocation. Remember:
- Register early
- Claim promptly
- Use your free electricity wisely
Energy is life — and Eskom’s FBE program ensures no family is left in the dark.
A Quick History: Why Does Eskom Offer Free Electricity?
The Free Basic Electricity (FBE) program was introduced by the South African government in 2003 as part of its pro-poor policies.
The goal?
Ensure that even the most financially vulnerable households could afford essential lighting, media access, and basic appliance use — without worrying about costs. Since then, millions of homes have benefited from this life-improving initiative.
Who Qualifies for Eskom’s Free Electricity in 2025?
Core Requirements
To qualify for Eskom’s FBE program:
- You must reside in South Africa.
- Your home must use a prepaid electricity meter.
- You must be officially registered as indigent with your local municipality.
- Your household income must fall below your municipality’s indigent threshold (usually around R3,500/month).
- Your average monthly electricity consumption should not exceed 250–350 kWh.
How Much Free Electricity Will You Get?
Standard Allocation:
- 50 kWh of free electricity every month.
In some rural areas:
- Households may receive up to 60 kWh, depending on municipal budgets.
Eskom’s Free Electricity in 2025 Guide to Access Your Free Electricity
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Check Registration Status | Confirm your indigent registration with your municipality |
| Claim Your Units | Via USSD (130869# / 269120#) or at authorized vendors |
| Enter the Code | Load your voucher code into your prepaid meter |
| Enjoy Your Savings | Use your 50 kWh wisely throughout the month |
Real Example: Sipho’s Story
Sipho, a father of three from Limpopo, was struggling with rising electricity costs.
After registering as indigent in 2023, he now receives 50 kWh free every month. This covers:
- Basic lighting
- A radio
- A small fridge
- Phone charging
Sipho says:
“That extra bit of help every month means my children can have warm meals and light for studying.”
Impact of FBE: Why It Matters
- Over 2.5 million households benefit from FBE annually.
- Helps reduce reliance on harmful energy alternatives like paraffin or candles.
- Supports better educational outcomes (children can study at night).
- Reduces household energy poverty across rural and urban South Africa.
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Common FBE Myths — Busted!
Myth: “Everyone gets free electricity automatically.”
➔ Fact: You must register and qualify as indigent.
Myth: “If I don’t use my free electricity, it rolls over next month.”
➔ Fact: Unused units expire monthly — use them or lose them.
Myth: “You can claim FBE twice if you have two meters.”
➔ Fact: One household = one allocation, no stacking allowed.
Energy-Saving Tips: Make Your 50 kWh Last Longer
- Use LED bulbs: They consume up to 85% less power.
- Boil only what you need: Don’t overuse the kettle.
- Unplug appliances: Avoid phantom energy drain.
- Switch to gas for cooking: Save your free units for lighting and small appliances.
- Use natural light: Open curtains during the day.
Saving power makes your free electricity stretch a lot further!
FAQs On Eskom’s Free Electricity in 2025
Can anyone apply for Eskom’s free electricity?
No. You must apply for indigent registration through your municipality first.
How long does my free electricity voucher last?
Each FBE voucher is valid only for the current month. It does not roll over.
Can tenants access FBE benefits?
Yes, as long as the property is registered and they have a prepaid meter.
What happens if I lose my indigent status?
You will lose access to FBE. Make sure to renew your indigent registration annually.
Government Perspective
Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe, emphasized:
“Free Basic Electricity is an essential step toward universal energy access and dignity for all South Africans.”
His statement highlights the national importance of programs like FBE in tackling inequality.
