In 2025, Eskom continues to provide relief to low-income households through its Free Basic Electricity (FBE) program. This initiative ensures that families facing financial difficulties can still access a minimum amount of electricity for essential needs. The program plays a key role in improving energy equity across South Africa.
By supplying a limited amount of electricity each month at no cost, the FBE program helps vulnerable citizens avoid complete disconnection and continue powering their homes for basic purposes such as lighting, cooking, and communication.
What is Free Basic Electricity?
Free Basic Electricity is a government-subsidised program designed to assist indigent households. It provides each qualifying household with 50kWh of free electricity per month. This amount is sufficient for basic needs like lighting, powering a small TV or radio, and charging devices.
This allocation is particularly useful for households relying on prepaid meters, as it helps them conserve financial resources for other essentials.
Who Qualifies for Free Electricity in 2025?
To receive free electricity under the Eskom FBE program in 2025, a household must meet these conditions:
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Be registered as an indigent household with a local municipality
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Use a prepaid electricity meter
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Consume less than 250kWh per month (Eskom users) or 450kWh (municipal users)
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Have a combined household income under R7,500 per month
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Use the electricity for residential and not business purposes
These criteria ensure that the support reaches only the households that truly need assistance.
How Much Free Electricity Is Provided?
The allocation for 2025 remains fixed at:
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50kWh per household per month
This is typically enough to run:
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One or two lights
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A radio
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A small television
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Charging mobile phones
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A small fan
The allocation resets every month and does not carry forward. If unused, the free units for that month are lost.
How to Apply for Free Basic Electricity
The application process is handled at the municipal level. Follow these steps to apply:
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Visit your local municipal office and request to be added to the indigent register.
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Submit proof of income, identity documents, and address.
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Ensure a prepaid meter is installed at your residence.
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Once approved, your household will be enrolled, and your free units will be loaded monthly.
If you’re unsure of your status or need help registering, municipal offices and ward councillors can provide assistance.
How to Access the Free Electricity
After being approved, beneficiaries can claim their free units in a few ways:
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Use a USSD code provided by your municipality or Eskom to generate a token
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Collect the token at approved vendors or spaza shops
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Enter the token into your prepaid meter as usual
It’s important to claim the units before the month ends, as they will not roll over into the next period.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many units of free electricity do I get monthly?
You receive 50kWh of free electricity per month if you qualify.
Can I get more than 50kWh if I have a larger family?
No, the free units are fixed at 50kWh per household, not per person.
What happens if I don’t use my free units?
They expire at the end of each month. Unused units do not roll over.
Can I still apply for FBE in 2025?
Yes, applications are open year-round through your municipality, provided you meet the criteria.
What should I do if I stop receiving my free electricity?
Check your indigent registration status at the municipality and ensure your meter details are up to date.
Click here to know more.
Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.