D. 2017 - 2018 Tariff Booklet
D. 2017 - 2018 Tariff Booklet
D. 2017 - 2018 Tariff Booklet
TARIFFS
2017/2018
Tariff Increases - Effective: 01 July 2017 (ALL PRICES EXCLUDE VAT)
Scale 1 1.88%
Energy Charge 160.24(c/kWh)
Service Charge 209.68(R/month)
CENTRAL REGION
Durban: Central Customer Services 031 311 9086
The Rotunda, 1 Jelf Taylor Crescent
NORTHERN REGION
UMhlanga: Northern Customer Services 031 311 9509
Manhattan House, 15 Twilight Drive
SOUTHERN REGION
Isipingo: Isipingo Customer Services 031 311 5632/3
1st Floor, 3 Police Station Road
www.durban.gov.za
CONTENTS
TARIFFS A 5 - 23
RESIDENTIAL TARIFFS
Introduction 5
General 5
Scale 3 3-Phase Residential 6
Scale 4 Single-Phase Residential 6
Scale 8 Prepaid Electricity Dispenser 6
Scale 9 Prepaid Electricity Dispenser (40A) 6
Scale 12 Free Basic Electricity 7
RTOU Residential Time of Use 7
Scale 15 Residential Embedded Generation 8
Typical Costs Of Using Appliances 9
Electricity Account Sample 10
BUSINESS TARIFFS
Introduction 11
General 11
CTOU Commercial Time of Use 12
Scale 1 Business & General 13
Scale 10 B&G Prepaid Electricity 13
Scale 11 B&G Prepaid Electricity (40A) 13
Advisory Services 20
Notified Maximum Demand Rules 20
Power Factor Correction 23
Electricity Account Payment Methods 23
Considering this increase and various other operational cost escalations, we were able to balance the budget with an
average increase of 1.88%. This is in line with the guideline Municipal increase as recommended by NERSA. The lower
tariff increase, bodes well for the citizens and the local economy of Durban in these difficult times. It must be noted thou,
that this is an unusually low tariff increase and we should brace ourselves for higher tariff increases going into the future.
The electricity sales revenue is expected to generate a total of R12.7 billion for the 2017/2018 financial year. 65% of this
will be used to pay for bulk electricity purchases while the balance will mainly be used to offset operational expenses.
Electricity growth since last year has been negative (-0.4%). This declining movement is a call for concern as we have an
expanding network, with increasing cost against a decreasing sales trend. In order to ensure sustainability of the
distribution network, we must seek for evolving business models that will allow for municipalities to carry out their core
functions in a sustainable manner. One of the attempts in planning for future sustainability, is to move toward cost
reflective tariffs.
This entails designing tariffs and levying charges to the end customer, in the manner in which it is incurred by the
Municipality. Historically tariff structures were bundled, and whilst this was simple to administer it did not promote the
principles of reflectivity. Hence, non-cost reflective tariffs are being phased out via higher price increases. Customers that
are purchasing electricity on obsolete (LV3-Part) or discontinued tariffs are urged to migrate to alternate structures.
We are continuously receiving more requests to entertain reverse power flow. Customers not only want to buy power
from Municipalities but would also like to generate and sell power back. This phenomenon is becoming more popular as
generation technology becomes cheaper against a backdrop of rising electricity prices. We have worked closely with the
Regulator to design and prepare a small scale residential embedded generation framework to manage these requests.
We endeavour to formally launch this program within the financial year. Stringent technical and commissioning criteria
will be enforced, prior to the connection of these generators to the grid.
The Revenue Management System has been launched city wide. You will notice a slight difference in your account view
and format however, the principles of billing remain unchanged. The system has been operational for the past year and
allows for all Municipal services to be billed via a single account system. There has been a few “teething” issues during
system migration however we are progressing well.
We have experienced zero incidences of load shedding for the past year. This is an indication that the national grid has
stabilised. To ensure that we maintain this stability, we must keep going with our energy efficiency and demand side
management initiatives.
________________
Maxwell Mthembu
Acting Head: Electricity
RESIDENTIAL TARIFFS
INTRODUCTION
SECTION A
These tariffs are only available to residential customers operating at either 230 V (single phase) or 400 V (three
phase). Customers have the option of either purchasing electricity via a credit based tariff (i.e scale 3 & 4) or
alternatively a prepayment based tariff (scale 8 & 9). Indigent residential customers who consume below 150
kWh per month qualify for the FBE tariff. This tariff allows the customer to claim 65 kWh of free electricity on a
monthly basis.
RESIDENTIAL TARIFFS
RTOU
[NOT ACTIVE]
GENERAL
Residential tariffs, shall apply to electricity supplied to:
(a) residential premises (as defined by eThekwini municipality electricity supply bylaws) which are individually
metered;
(b) flats or maisonettes used solely for residential purposes or any premises used as such which are individually
metered;
(c) non-profit making residential establishments operated by welfare organisations as defined by the National
Welfare Act, 1978;
(d) general lighting in blocks of flats and other residential buildings where no form of business activity is conducted;
(e) residential tariffs shall not apply where any form of business activity is conducted. The decision of the
Engineer as to whether electricity may be supplied under these tariffs will be final.
5
RESIDENTIAL CREDIT TARIFFS
THREE PHASE - SCALE 3 SINGLE PHASE - SCALE 4
Typical Customers Typical Customers
Large residential premises with ducted Medium sized residential premises.
airconditioning, swimming pool, etc. Supply size is 60 A. (80 A available in certain
circumstances)
Service Charge
The service charge is built into the energy charge Service Charge
therefore a separate service charge is not The service charge is built into the energy charge
applicable therefore a separate service charge is not applicable
General: Estimated charges are raised in months where no meter readings are taken and these are reversed
when actual consumption is charged for.
Prepayment customers pay for electricity in advance by using tokens or encoded numbers purchased from
eThekwini Electricity Customer Service Centres or Agents. A deposit of R100 is required as an insurance against
the cost of replacing the meter in the event of it being damaged. In the event of a meter being purposely damaged
or bypassed, the required deposit is increased to R400.
FREE BASIC ELECTRICITY (FBE) PREPAYMENT ONLY
Energy Charge
General: This tariff is currently only available to indigent customers who consume less than 150 kWh per month.
All customers on this tariff will be eligible to 65 kWh of free electricity on a monthly basis. An online monitoring
system is currently in place that identifies qualifying customers based on their previous history. FBE tokens
cannot be accumulated and must be collected on a monthly basis.
Energy Charge The energy charge is time dependent but not seasonally differentiated.
Service Charge The service charge is a fixed charge and is charged on a monthly basis per point of supply.
General THIS TARIFF IS NOT ACTIVE. THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THIS TARIFF IS DEPENDENT
ON THE SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SMART METERING PROJECT.
7
RESIDENTIAL EMBEDDED GENERATION - SCALE 15
Description This is a bi-directional (import/export) tariff structure reserved for residential customers only.
Typical Customers Residential customers with embedded generation up to a maximum of:
Single phase: 4.6 kVA
Three Phase: 13.8 kVA
Note: This is an interim tariff structure that may be superceded when National Regulatory
frameworks / guidelines / standards are introduced. EThekwini Municipality reserves the
right to restructure and re-price this tariff as market conditions vary.
NETWORK CHARGE
All Seasons Single Phase 229,23
Three Phase 331, 11
Energy Charge Import energy refers to energy consumed from the grid. Export energy refers to energy
generated onto the grid
Network Charge The network charge is a fixed charge and is charged on a monthly basis (or account cycle)
per point of supply.
.
General Exported energy will only be off-set to a maximum of the financial charges as per the account or
the predetermined threshold (whichever is the least)
Any excess exported energy will be forfeited. Single Phase Maximum Offset : R 557
Three Phase Maximum Offset : R 2353
Off-sets are applicable on a monthly basis. No carry-overs are allowed.
1,5 x 2 x 30 x 1,6177
R145,59 9
ELECTRICITY ACCOUNT SAMPLE
TAX INVOICE
Use this
THE METRO BILL FROM METRO REVENUE
VAT REGISTRATION NO 455 010 1457
N.B. SEE NOTES OVERLEAF
number
whenever you
have a query.
Mr XXXXXX
PO BOX 16 PAYMENT MADE AFTER THIS DATE WILL BE
DURBAN REFLECTED ON YOUR NEXT ACCOUNT
4000
GUARANTEE DEPOSIT
Name & 0.00 1822.00
Address
(for correspondence)
This amount
This is the ELECTRICITY ACCOUNT-FOR METER READING
shows total
tariff. QUERIES, PHONE 3001407
Scale 3 & 4 usage.
apply to
residences SERVICE ADDRESS: XXXXXX
while scale The
1 is for electricity
business SCALE 04 - RESIDENTIAL used between
and general E9670981 METER NBR. 00B19643 - ROUTINE
use. these two
FROM 05 JUL 2016 TO 05 SEP 2016 dates costs
BASIC 3073 5442 2369 * 1 kWh 3 299.54 this.
The start
reading. TOTAL AMOUNT PAYABLE BY 3 496,31
We estimated
you would have
used this
amount
between the
date your
The end reading was this. meter was
read and the
date of your
bill.
Note: Customers billed via the new account management system will see a variation
in the format of their account, however the principle of charging will be similar.
BUSINESS TARIFFS
INTRODUCTION
These tariffs are generally applicable to business and commercial customers consuming electricity at voltages
not exceeding 11 kV. Business and commercial customers have the option of purchasing electricity via a credit
based tariff (Scale 1 & CTOU) or alternatively a prepayment based tariff (Scale 10 & 11).
GENERAL
Business and General tariffs, shall apply to electricity supplied to:
(a) business premises including shops, factories, hostels, boarding houses, restaurants, office buildings, religious
buildings and general supplies;
(b) residential buildings in which individual units are not separately metered;
(c) illumination of outdoor sports grounds, external illumination of buildings, illuminated signs, advertisements
or lamps used solely for external decorative purposes, street lighting and any other form of lighting service;
(d) motive power, heating and other industrial purposes, including temporary supplies;
(e) any other purposes as approved by the Engineer. The decision of the Engineer as to whether electricity
may be supplied under these tariffs will be final.
11
COMMERCIAL TIME OF USE (CTOU)
This tariff is designed for Business and Industrial customers with a Notified Maximum Demand equal to or less
than 100 kVA. CTOU agreements are entered into for a minimum period of one year.
Network Demand Charge (R/kVA) Service Charge (R) Network Surcharge (%)
All Seasons-Min Charge of 50 kVA All Seasons All Seasons
Only applicable if demand is
60,29 299,12 equal to or greater than 110kVA 25
Energy Charge The energy charge is time dependent and seasonally differentiated.
Service Charge The service charge is a fixed charge and is charged on a monthly basis per point
of supply.
Network Demand Charge The network demand charge is based on the highest kVA consumed for the month.
Minimum Demand Charge A minimum demand charge of 50 kVA will apply on a monthly basis.
Network Surcharge The network surcharge is levied on the sum of all costs with the exception of the
service charge. This charge is only applicable if the network demand is equal
to or greater than 110kVA
Note: The time periods for the high/low season and peak, standard, off-peak are in accordance with page 17.
BUSINESS & GENERAL CREDIT TARIFFS - SCALE 1
Typical Customers Small to medium Commercial and Industrial.
Service Charge This service charge is a fixed charge per month per point of supply.
This charge may also be levied per account cycle proportionately, per point of supply.
Prepayment customers pay for electricity in advance by using tokens or encoded numbers purchased from
eThekwini Electricity Customer Service Centres or Agents.
13
OBSOLETE BUSINESS TARIFFS - SCALE 002/021
Obsolete Tariff This tariff is currently active, but no longer available to new customers.
This tariff has been superceded by the Commercial Time of Use (CTOU).
Please refer to page 12.
Voltage Rebate A 2% rebate is applied to the energy charge for supply voltages exceeding 1 000 V.
(Prices exclude VAT)
General: Estimated charges are raised in months where no meter readings are taken and these are reversed when
actual consumption is charged for. A deposit equivalent to 3 months consumption is generally required. This is periodically
reviewed and increased deposits may be charged where required.
Service Charge: This service charge is a fixed charge per month per point of supply. This charge may also be levied
per account cycle proportionately per point of supply.
INTRODUCTION
The large power user agreements are entered into for a minimum period of one year. They are intended for customers
who consume electricity on a continuous basis throughout the year. The bulk tariffs are designed to have different rates
for the same energy component during different time periods and seasons in order to comply with the cost of supply
at different times more accurately.
CONSUMERS
NOTIFIED MAXIMUM OBSOLETE DISCONTINUED
DEMAND > 100 KVA
1 200 4 800
4 750
1 000
4 700
800
Number of customers
4 650
Energy (GWh)
600 4 600
4550
400
4 500
200
4 450
0 0
10/11 11/12 12/13 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17
Restricted Demand The highest half-hourly demand in kVA taken by the customer between 16h00 and 20h00,
Monday to Friday (Applicable to LV3 Part Tariff only).
Energy Measured in kWh throughout the month.
Notified Maximum The maximum demand notified in writing by the customer and accepted by the municipality.
Demand
Notified Minimum The Minimum Demand notified in writing by the customer and accepted by the municipality
Demand (LV3-Part)
Service Charge A fixed charge payable per account per month ( or account cycle) to recover service related costs.
NOTE : The appropriate seasonally differentiated energy charges will be applicable on these days. Any unexpectedly
announced public holidays will be treated as the day of the week on which it falls.
TIME OF USE TARIFF TERMS
High Demand The period from 1 June to 31 August inclusive.
Season
Peak, Standard The different times during the day, as shown in the graphs below, during which varying
and Off-Peak energy charges apply.
Periods
Maximum Demand The highest half-hourly demand in kVA taken by the customer during Peak and Standard
periods in the month.
Energy Measured in kWh during Peak, Standard and Off-Peak periods during the days of the
month according to the graphs below.
23 24 1
22 2 HIGH DEMAND SEASON
21 Weekdays 3
TIME PERIODS MON - FRI SAT SUN
20 4
Saturday 22h00 - 06h00 OFF-PEAK OFF-PEAK OFF-PEAK
19 5 06h00 - 07h00 PEAK OFF-PEAK OFF-PEAK
07h00 - 09h00 PEAK STANDARD OFF-PEAK
18 Sunday 6
18 09h00 - 12h00 STANDARD STANDARD OFF-PEAK
7 12h00 - 17h00 STANDARD OFF-PEAK OFF-PEAK
17
17h00 - 18h00 PEAK OFF-PEAK OFF-PEAK
8
16 18h00 - 19h00 PEAK STANDARD OFF-PEAK
15 9
19h00 - 20h00 STANDARD STANDARD OFF-PEAK
14 10
11
20h00 - 22h00 STANDARD OFF-PEAK OFF-PEAK
13 12
17
INDUSTRIAL TIME OF USE (ITOU)
This tariff is designed for customers with a Notified Maximum Demand greater than 100 kVA. Customers opting
for this tariff will benefit if they can shift their loads away from peak periods and towards Standard/Off-
Peak periods.
(Prices exclude VAT)
Network Demand Charge (R/kVA) Network Access Charge (R/kVA) Service Charge (R)
Based on Actual Demand Based on highest demand recorded Rand per Month
Voltage %Surcharge
250
11 kV 10,50
50
6,6 kV 12,75
0
Peak Standard Off-peak
400 V 22,50
Time Interval
Energy Charge The energy charge is time dependent and seasonally differentiated in accordance
with the time intervals as illustrated on page 17.
Notified Maximum Demand The notified maximum demand as stated by the customer, should be the highest
amount of kVA that the customer expects the municipality to be in a position to
supply. Reductions will not be allowed for seasonal variations and temporary
load reductions. An unauthorised increase in demand does not automatically
increase the NMD
Network Demand Charge The network demand charge is based on the actual demand (kVA) per month.
Network Access Charge The NAC will be based on the higher of the NMD, the current demand or the
historical demand as described by the NMD rules.
Service Charge This service charge is a fixed charge and is charged on a monthly basis per
point of supply.
Voltage Surcharge The voltage surcharge is the percentage levied on the sum of all costs with the
exception of the service charge.
Notified Maximum Demand This tariff is subject to Notified Maximum Demand Rules. Please refer to page 20
Rules for further details.
OBSOLETE - LOW VOLTAGE 3-PART (LV3-PART)
Typical Commercial and Industrial customers who are supplied at 400 V, consuming greater than
100 kVA and are able to restrict their electricity consumption between the weekday time
25 period: 16h00 - 20h00
Obsolete Tariff LV3-Part: This tariff is currently active, but no longer available to new customers.
Note: Obsolete tariffs attract higher than average increases. Customers are therefore encouraged to review
their load profile and investigate the feasibility of migrating to alternate tariffs.
DISCONTINUED TARIFFS
The following tariffs were deemed non cost reflective and have been discontinued as of 1 July 2009:
Supertension (ST3-Part)
Excess night & weekend demand options (ST3-Part)
Low Voltage Two-Part Tariff (LV2-Part)
Scale 5/6/7 (Business & General)
19
ADVISORY SERVICES
TARIFFS ANALYSIS
The suite of electricity tariffs at eThekwini Municipality are designed to cater for a range of electricity consumption
profiles. Where a customer implements a change in plant operation that alters the electricity consumption profile,
it may be necessary to migrate to alternate tariff structures.
Customers are encouraged to periodically study their load profiles and ensure that they purchase electricity on
the most efficient tariff structure available.
For more information and advice in this regard, please contact the Electricity Pricing & Marketing Branch on:
031 311 9283/5/6/7
2 APPLICATION OF CHARGES
2.1.1 The NAC is charged based on the higher of the following:
I. The NMD (kVA)
II. The Maximum Demand (kVA)
III. The NAC (kVA) of the previous month (Note : once off exceedances will be carried forward)
Note: The NAC will always reflect the highest demand drawn from the network including any (i.e. previous
or current) unauthorised demand exceedance.
2.1.2 In an instance where the maximum demand is greater than the NMD, the chargeable kVA utilised in
calculating the NAC will be increased by the percentage difference between the maximum demand and
the NMD (i.e. Excess Network Percentage).
2.1.3. The % increase of the NAC represents an excess charge as a result of exceeding the NMD. The ENP
will only be raised in the months where the maximum demand exceeds the NMD; however the increased
maximum demand (kVA) will be chargeable as per the NAC going forward.
2.1.4. Any payments made via the tariff for the demand exceeding the NMD shall not be deemed as an agreement
by eThekwini Municipality to make such higher demand available to a customer. Such agreement will
be subject to negotiating new terms and conditions to modify the connection and amend the existing
electricity supply agreement. Refer to Clause 3.1 for the conditions associated with an increase in demand.
21
3 CHANGES TO NMD
3.1 INCREASE IN NMD
3.1.1. A request for an increase in NMD by a customer will be considered as a request for a modification of
the connection and amendment to the contract. EThekwini Municipality has the right to evaluate such
a modification before agreeing to increase the capacity (NMD) at the request of the customer.
3.1.2. Where a customer requests an increase in NMD at a POD, the request should be made in writing to
eThekwini Municipality. Subsequently a quotation will be prepared, detailing the relevant connection
charges and the new terms and conditions applicable.
3.1.3. A connection charge will take into account the following:
(a) Additional dedicated costs.
(b) Upstream sharing charges.
(c) Any other relevant costs as associated with the POD
3.1.4. The provision of the new NMD is subject to the agreement by the parties of the new terms and conditions,
the payment of the relevant connection charges and where applicable, to any required work being
completed by eThekwini Municipality and/or the customer.
3.2. REDUCTION IN NMD
3.2.1. Where a customer requires a reduction in NMD at a POD, detailed written motivation with a notice of
12 month is required. If the customer can motivate a downgrade sooner, such as for the reasons
provided in Clause 3.2.2, permission for a shorter notice period with a minimum of 3 months will not
be unreasonably withheld.
Note: Only one reduction will be allowed per 12 month cycle.
3.2.2. A reduction in NMD to a value that is below the previous 12 months highest recorded demand in all
time periods will not be allowed, unless motivated by any of the following:
(a) Change in operations (not seasonal variations)
(b) Closure of plant
(c) Installation of load management equipment
(d) Implementation of Demand Side Management (DSM) initiatives
3.2.3. EThekwini Municipality's approval of a reduced NMD is subject to Clause 3.2.2 above and acceptance
by the customer of any revised conditions or charges.
3.2.4. The reduced NMD will be applied from the start of the next read cycle following the expiry of the notice
period or any lesser notice period as agreed to.
3.2.5. If, in the 12 months following any reduction of the NMD under Clause 3.2.1, the reduced NMD is
exceeded, the ENP will apply. In addition, the maximum demand level recorded will become chargeable
as per the NAC. This will apply from the time of the reduction and the customer will be re-billed
accordingly.
3.2.6. In an instance where there is a reduction in the NMD, A charge may be required to recover costs due
to underutilised assets and infrastructure. Further charges may apply where assets must be removed.
3.2.7. Temporary reductions in NMD will not be allowed.
4 EXCEEDENCE OF NMD
4.1.1 In the event that the maximum demand exceeds the NMD in respect of the relevant POD, or where
the simultaneous maximum demand of PODs that receive the benefit of diversity exceeds the sum of
the NMDs, the following will apply in addition to the charges as detailed in section 2.0:
4.1.2. Any exceedance of the NMD shall constitute a breach of eThekwini Municipality's supply contract.
EThekwini Municipality shall, at its election, be entitled to cancel the supply contract, subject to the
customer's right to apply for an increase in NMD and conclude a new contract with eThekwini Municipality.
4.1.3. If the customer does not conclude a new contract, eThekwini Municipality reserves the right to terminate
the supply and remove any equipment surplus to meeting the contracted NMD or to provide this capacity
for the use of customers who have contracted for the capacity.
23
SCHEDULE OF
CONNECTION
FEES & CHARGES
1. CONNECTION FEE
A Connection Fee, subject to Section 2(3) of the Electricity
Supply Bylaws:
1.1 For a single phase (230 V) 40 A subsidised connection where the
electricity is to be purchased on a Scale 9 or Scale 11 energy tariff
of the Second Schedule: *1(a)
1.1.1 With a small power distribution unit R263,16 R36,84 R300,00
1.1.2 Without a small power distribution unit R131,58 R18,42 R150,00
1.1.3 Electrification program for Informal Settlements
Connections will only be approved in accordance with the policy
guidelines as issued by the Department of Energy.
No charge applicable - if all subsidy
For a single phase (230 V) 20 A subsidised connection supplied
conditions are complied with
to an informal dwelling, where electricity is to be purchased on
a prepayment energy tariff of the Second Schedule:
* Registration of the meter is required.
NOTE 1 The Engineer may for technical reasons decide to use underground
SECTION B
cable.
NOTE 2 There may be additional charges at the rates prescribed in item
2 hereof for any supply mains extensions made in excess of one
pole and one span; but excluding any poles and spans used for
road crossings.
1.2 For connections other than to those referred to in Item 1.1
a charge consisting of a Basic Component, a Supply Mains
Component, a Service Mains Component and a Metering
Component shall apply: *1(b)
25
1.2.1.2 For three phase 400 V connections *1(b)(i)(B)iv
(a) Up to 80 A R15 201,75 R2 128,25 R17 330,00
(b) 81 A to 100 A R26 429,82 R3 700,18 R30 130.00
(c) 101 A to 120 A R53 061,40 R7 428,60 R60 490,00
(d) 121 A to 150 A R65 561,40 R9 178,60 R74 740,00
(e) 151 A to 200 A R123 982,46 R17 357,54 R141 340,00
(f) 201 A to 250 A R154 035,09 R21 564,91 R175 600,00
(g) 251 A to 300 A R184 543,86 R25 836,14 R210 380,00
(h) 301 A to 400 A R246 342,11 R34 487,89 R280 830,00
(i) 401 A to 500 A R305 964,91 R42 835,09 R348 800,00
(j) 501 A to 800 A R421 569,30 R59 019,70 R480 589,00
(k) 801 A to 1 200 A R451 543,86 R63 216,14 R514 760,00
(l) 1 201 A to 1 600 A R528 765,79 R74 027,21 R602 793,00
(m) 1 601 A to 2 400 A R811 456,14 R113 603,86 R925 060,00
(n) 2 401 A to 3 000 A R1 027 548,25 R143 856,75 R1 171 405,00
(a) A cost per connection of: R242 267,54 R33 917,46 R276 185,00
Plus
(b) A cost per kVA of requested capacity of: R168,42 R23,58 R192,00
1.2.1.4 For 11 000 V and 33 000 V connections where the requested
capacity exceeds 8 000 kVA:
The proportionate costs as determined by the Engineer at prevailing
rates, for: the supply main extension; the required switch-panels
at the major substation; switchgear at the customer's premises,
and any other costs as deemed appropriate by the Engineer, is
charged
1.2.1.5 For 132 000 V connections:
The proportionate costs as determined by the Engineer at prevailing
rates, for: 132 kV switch-panels at the 275 kV/132 kV substation;
132 kV switchgear installed at the customer's premises, and any
other costs as deemed appropriate by the Engineer.
NOTE 3 (a) Where requested by the Engineer, customers are required to
provide brick substations to the Engineer's specification.
(b) Mini-substations up to requested capacity of 500 kVA may be
supplied at the Engineer’s discretion in residential areas only.
(c) The customer must ensure that all substations shall be positioned
with direct public road access. Only in exceptional circumstances
shall the engineer approve otherwise.
1.2.1.6 Substation Rebate
Where the Engineer requires the applicant to provide a brick
substation to feed or from which it is intended to feed other
customers, a reduction shall be applied to the Basic
component of the connection charge as follows:
(a) Rebate for a brick substation: R41 028,07 R5 743,93 R46 772,00
(b) Rebate for a distributor substation: R82 046,49 R11 486,51 R93 533,00
1.2.1.7 Substation Trench Covers (per sq. meter) R 1 162,28 R 162,72 R 1 325,00
1.2.1.8 For Connections within a Township where a Developer has
paid for the Supply Mains, Internal Reticulation and
Transformation within:
(a) A charge per single phase 230 V connection: R2 070,18 R289,82 R2 360,00
(b) A charge per three phase 80 A 400 V connection: R4 131,58 R578,42 R4 710,00
1.2.2 A Metering Component as follows: *(b)(ii) / 1(b)(ii)
1.2.2.1 For each split single phase electricity dispenser (connected
via pilot wire) up to 60 A. R1 385,96 R194,04 R1 580,00
(a) For replacement of Customer User Interface (CUI) R535,09 R74,91 R610,00
1.2.2.2 For each split single phase electricity dispenser (wireless)
up to 60 A: R1 657,89 R232,11 R1 890,00
(a) For replacement of Customer User Interface - Wireless R614,04 R85,96 R700,00
1.2.2.3 For a small power distribution unit: R570,18 R79,82 R650,00
1.2.2.4 For each single phase meter up to 80 A: R859,65 R120,35 R980,00
1.2.2.5 For each three phase electronic meter up to 120 A: R4 456,14 R623,86 R5 080,00
1.2.2.6 For each set of energy and demand meters suitable per
feed: (bulk tariffs) R12 157,89 R1 702,11 R13 860,00
1.2.2.7 For each three phase (5 A) electronic meter (suitable for
Scale 1 tariff - greater than 120 A)
Excluding communication modem: R4 807,02 R672,98 R5 480,00
1.2.2.8 For each three phase (5A) electronic meter (suitable for R6 912,28 R967,72 R7 880,00
CTOU tariff )
1.2.2.9 For Low Voltage current transformer not exceeding 1500A R412,28 R57,72 R470,00
(each) :
1.2.2.10 For Low Voltage current transformer greater than 1500 A
but not exceeding 2000 A (Each) R482,46 R67,54 R550,00
1.2.2.11 For Low Voltage current transformer greater than 2000 A
but not exceeding 3000 A (Each) R701,75 R98,25 R800,00
1.2.2.12 For reprogramming of existing electronic meter R640,35 R89,65 R730,00
1.2.2.13 For each three phase electronic meter (multi-rate) up to
160A: (Excluding communication modem) R7 324,56 R1 025,44 R8 350,00
NOTE 4 Where adequate communication to the keypad is not
available via the airdac communication pilot wire for pre-
payment metering systems, the customer shall provide and
install the necessary communication pilot wires.
NOTE 5 Current Transformers are required for supplies greater than
27
120 A
NOTE 6 Where a meter is recovered, a rebate as determined by the
Engineer is to be applied to the replacement meter. The
rebate, however, shall not exceed the cost of the replacement
meter.
NOTE 7 A change in tariff may require a change in meter
NOTE 8 The type of meter installed shall be at the discretion of the
Engineer
29
2. SUPPLY MAINS EXTENSION AND SERVICE MAINS INSTALLATIONS: *2
2.1 Cable shall be charged for in accordance with the following rates:
(a) Cables with a standard operating voltage not exceeding 1 000 V:
NOTE 12 These costs are also applied when deriving costs of Low Voltage Busbar and insulated conductor.
(b) Cables with a standard operating voltage exceeding 1 000 V but not exceeding 11 000 V:
(b) Other types and sizes of overhead supply specified by the Engineer as being suitable for the service,
which is not included in (a) above, shall be paid for at a rate equal to the actual cost of supply and
installation.
4. DISCONNECTIONS: *11
4.1 For disconnections and reconnections made at the request
of the consumer:
(a) Where disconnected at the request of the consumer for R230,70 R32,30 R263,00
a suspension of the service:
31
(b) Where disconnected at the request of the consumer to
enable him to effect extensions, repairs or maintenance
to his house or to allow an electrical contractor to
reposition meter box without extension to, or cutting of,
the service main: Nil Nil Nil
(c) Where overhead service mains are temporarily
disconnected and coiled back, on request, for the carrying
out of fumigation or similar services: R596,49 R83,51 R680,00
4.2 For disconnections carried out in consequence of a breach
of the Bylaws:
4.2.1 Residential
(i) Where disconnected for non-payment of account, or in
consequence of a breach of the Bylaws other than for
unauthorised reconnection, illegal bypassing of meter
or for tampering; per disconnection: R154,39 R21,61 R176,00
(ii) Where disconnected as a result of unauthorised
reconnection of item 4.2.1 (i) above; per disconnection: R293,86 R41,14 R335,00
4.2.2 Business & Commercial
(i) Where disconnected for non-payment of account, or in
consequence of a breach of the Bylaws other than for
unauthorised reconnection, illegal bypassing of meter
or for tampering; per disconnection: R254,39 R35,61 R290,00
(ii) Where disconnected as a result of unauthorised
reconnection of item 4.2.2 (i) above; per disconnection: R474,56 R66,44 R541,00
4.2.3 Where disconnected as a result of the illegal bypassing of
the meter, meter tampering or for tampering with the metering
installation; per disconnection for:
(i) residential connection R921,05 R128,95 R1050,00
(ii) business or commercial connection, where the minimum
charge shall be the greater of R3 300,00 or an amount
equivalent to 20% of the average monthly electricity
consumption. R2 894,74 R405,26 R3 300,00
NOTE 13 This charge excludes the cost of the meter. If the Engineer
requires that the meter be replaced then the additional meter
cost, as listed in item 1.2.2 will be charged and there will be
no rebate for the tampered or vandalised meter.
4.3 Reinstatement of Services
Where the service has been removed either as a result of
illegal bypassing of the meter or as a result of tampering,
per disconnection:
(a) For a single phase connection - Credit Meter R2 062,28 R288,72 R2 351,00
(b) For a single phase connection - Prepayment R2 639,47 R369,53 R3 009,00
(c) For a single phase connection - Prepayment Wireless R2 855,26 R399,74 R3 255,00
(d) For a three phase connection - Electronic Meter (120A) R5 650,00 R791,00 R6 441,00
4.3.1 Where the service has been removed either as a result of
illegal bypassing of the meter in a meter room or as a result
of tampering in a meter room, per disconnection:
(a) For a single phase connection - Credit Meter R1 862,28 R260,72 R2 123,00
(b) For a single phase connection - Prepayment R2 439,47 R341,53 R2 781,00
(c) For a single phase connection - Prepayment Wireless R2 655,26 R371,74 R3 027,00
(d) For a three phase connection - Electronic Meter (120A) R5 447,37 R762,63 R6 210,00
NOTE 14 Actual costs of re-instatement of services shall apply for all
other situations.
(e) In addition to the above, business or commercial
connections, shall pay the greater of R3 300,00 or an
amount equivalent to 20% of the average monthly
electricity consumption R2 894,74 R405,26 R3 300,00
NOTE 15 In addition to the appropriate amounts contained in items
4.2 and 4.3 reconnection shall only occur once any arrear
consumption charges, estimated charges for unmetered
consumption and/or additional deposits owed by the consumer
have been paid.
5 TEMPORARY SUPPLIES
For periods not exceeding 14 days where supply can be
provided from existing supply mains (for fetes, religious
gatherings, elections, etc.): *13
5.1 For single phase supplies up to 80 A (at point of supply) R982,46 R137,54 R1 120,00
(a) Per metre of cable laid charged according to rates in
item 2 of this schedule As per item 2 of this schedule
(b) Installation consumption per 40 A per day: R155,26 R21,74 R177,00
(c) Installation consumption per 60 A per day: R232,46 R32,54 R265,00
(d) Installation consumption per 80 A per day: R309,65 R43,35 R353,00
5.2 For 3 phase supplies (at point of supply) R1 257,89 R176,11 R1 434,00
(a) Per metre of cable laid charged according to rates in
item 2 of this schedule: As per item 2 of this schedule
(b) Installation consumption per amp per day: R12,46 R1,74 R14,20
33
6 PROVISION OF LOAD PROFILE
RECORDING DATA: *14
6.1 Where the period of recording is not in excess of seven days: R3 508,77 R491,23 R4 000,00
6.2 For each subsequent week or portion thereof: R70,18 R9,82 R80,00
6.3 Where a suitable profile meter is installed R657,89 R92,11 R750,00
*Indicates the numbering as referenced to the First Schedule in the eThekwini Municipality Electricity
Supply Bylaws. The First Schedule is now replaced by this document, Schedule of Connection Fees
and Charges.
35
Frequently
Asked Questions
New supply / Connection
How do I apply for a new electrical connection?
Visit one of our Customer Service Centres Your completed application will be captured,
and fill in the ‘ application for electrical referenced and electronically sent to the
connection’ form. Planning Department for technical analysis
and costing. Once completed, a pro-forma
NOTE: You may need to consult with your invoice detailing the costs, installation
electrician for the required technical details, specifications and a meter card will be posted
i.e Supply Size, Circuit Breaker Size etc… . to you.
Once payment has been received in Once your cable and meter has been
accordance with your invoice, your application installed by the depot, the customer must
will be confirmed. You are also required to hand in a signed certificate of compliance
submit your completed meter card for your indicating the application number within
connection request to be processed. 48hrs to eThekwini electricity.
NOTE: Your electrician will need to carry out the NOTE: A copy of the certificate of compliance will be
electrical connections from your distribution board to accepted provided that it is certified with the contractors
the meter point and provide the necessary certification original signature. The customer should also retain a
for the work done. The depot will only commence work copy for his/her own record.
on-site once a completed meter card is received.
Prior to any consumption of electricity on site, the customer must register the connection to an account.
The customer will also be liable for the payment of a deposit to successfully register the connection.
An account can be opened at any Electricity Customer Service Centre. Payment of deposits for prepaid
applications and prepaid account registration must be done in conjunction with the relevant payment
of connection charges. Your application for electricity has been completed. Should you experience any
outages or faults, please contact 080 1313 111.
NOTE: CUSTOMERS MUST ENSURE THAT ONLY WHEN AN ACCOUNT IS OPENED I.E. REGISTRATION COMPLETED AND
DEPOSIT PAID CAN THE SUPPLY REMAIN ON OR BE SWITCHED ON.
1. ID Document of applicant / Owner The timeframes for connections will vary depending
2. Proof of ownership / lease agreement on the availability of power / infrastructure in the area
3. Authority from landlord (if applicable) and workload. The customer service consultant will
4. Approved building plan showing preferred be in a position to advise you on the average
meter location connection time once the planning department has
5. Registered contractor details completed the technical analysis for your application.
NOTE: FOR LAND OWNED BY TRIBAL AUTHORITIES, ONLY LETTERS FROM THE OFFICIAL TRIBAL AUTHORITY WILL
BE ACCEPTED.
37
I am based far away from eThekwini, can anyone else make an application on my behalf?
Yes, provided permission is granted in writing to the person making the application. Copies of ID documents
for both parties are required.
I bought a new property and need to register the electricity account in my name, what do I do?
Please visit your nearest Customer Services/Sizakala Centres with the following documents:
o ID Document
o Transfer Documents / Letter from Attorney confirming transfer has been lodged in owner's name.
Note: A deposit is required upon registration. The deposit amount is dependant on the connection size and
usage pattern of the supply.
What will happen to me if I were found to have tampered with my electricity meter?
All meters are inspected at regular intervals to determine whether tampering has taken place. If customers
are found to have tampered with or bypassed their meters the supply will be terminated and in certain
circumstances the cable removed. The customer will then have to pay a reconnection fee, an increased
deposit and any estimated amount calculated for consumption not paid for. Further the billing system is able
to trend your consumption pattern. Any undue increase or decrease will be flagged for investigation.
Note: Tampering with and bypassing of electricity meters is illegal and will not be tolerated. Severe
action will be taken against offenders.
39
What can I do if I suspect my meter is faulty?
If you suspect that your meter reading is not in accordance with your consumption as a result of a meter fault,
you may request for a meter test to be carried out. This process is subject to a meter test fee. Please contact
one of our customer service centres for further advice and information.
My meter is on the wall of my house. I would like to relocate the meter to a point on my
boundary. What must I do?
The first step is to employ the services of a registered electrician. The electrician will be responsible for
assessing your requirements and making an application on your behalf to the Municipality for a meter relocation.
The application must include a proposed meter position at the boundary point.
Once received, the Municipality will assess the application and confirm the meter location or advise otherwise;
Once finalised, a proforma invoice will be sent to you detailing the costs involved;
Once the costs have been paid, the electrician must carry out the electrical work within your boundary and
provide a meter card to the Electricity Department confirming that the site is ready for the meter relocation;
Once the meter card is received, the depot will arrange for the meter relocation. Upon completion, the electrical
contractor must test the new connection and issue an electrical certificate of compliance to the Municipality.
I would like to install a private meter (s) on my property to monitor electricity usage?
Meters installed beyond the main municipal meter are allowed, however these installations must be
carried out by a suitably qualified electrician without interfering with the main meter. You must receive
an electrical certificate of compliance for all work carried out.
41
How do I change my postal address?
Changes to postal details can be actioned at any one of our Customer Service centres or the process can
be triggered by emailing: [email protected] State within the email the following:
Account details
Current postal address
Proposed new postal address
NEW CUSTOMER
If there is no increase in prices for winter, why does my electricity account increase in
winter?
The tariff rate is constant however your consumption is probably increased during winter. Increased consumption
amongst others reasons could be as a result of the following:
• Increased use of electric heaters for warming up your home
• Longer water heating times (more electricity usage) as a result of a colder water intake into the geyser
Are the electricity tariffs the same for all customers in eThekwini?
There are different tariffs available for different customer categories (i.e. Residential, Business, Industrial)
however all customers have access to the same suite of tariffs and rates. The tariff rates are not geographically
dependant within eThekwini.
43
Free Basic Electricity
Do I qualify for free basic electricity?
Free basic electricity is aimed at the indigent population of Durban. If your are indigent and use < 150 kWh per
month, you are eligible. If you already have a prepayment meter and if you do qualify, then thanks to our online
vending systems, you are automatically a beneficiary of Free Basic Electricity (FBE). The second 20 digit number
on your purchased token is the free allocation of units. You will need to collect this in the month that it is valid
for.
Note: There is no carry over of monthly FBE tokens.
How does the free basic electricity tariff work ?(Pre-Payment ONLY)
The free basic electricity tariff was designed to assist the indigent customer category. An indigent customer
that consumes less than 150kWh per month (calculated on previous history) will be eligible for 65 kWh of free
electricity per month. The free energy tokens cannot be accumulated and must be collected on a monthly
basis. Please note that tokens are specific to the meter.
Why is it that some months my token has two sets of numbers and some not?
The two sets of numbers on your token means that you consumed an average of 150 kWh or less and therefore
you qualify for FBE. The first set of 20 digit numbers is the purchased token, whilst the second set is your
FBE allocation of 65 kWh. The absence of a second set of 20 digit numbers indicates that you have either
collected your FBE for that month or that you have exceeded an average of 150 kWh over the previous months
and that you are no longer eligible. Once your average consumption drops below 150 kWh, you will automatically
re-qualify for FBE allocation.
Can I collect my FREE electricity token in a month where I am not buying electricity?
Yes, provided that your average historical consumption is less than 150kWh. You would need to produce your
prepayment card at your nearest vendor to collect your free issue.
How to verify municipal staff and official work carried out on the network?
A call to our contact centre will offer you the opportunity to verify municipal staff and contractors. The contact
centre is updated daily with the relevant work sites and can easily confirm the work being carried out as well
as the employees tasked to do it. If you are suspicious of activities being carried out or the personnel on-site,
please don't hesitate to contact us. Should we not be able to verify a team or their related work, we will dispatch
security for further investigation.
45
How to report theft of electricty and infrastructure?
The Municipality requests that the public be vigilant and report suspicious activities to the contact centre on
080 1313 111 (Toll Free - Landline only).
The Criminal Matters Amendment Act is now in force, creating far harsher sentencing and bail conditions for
people who damage/steal infrastructure for services.
There are minimum sentences for first-time copper thieves of three years, and a maximum 30 years for those
involved in instigating or causing damage to infrastructure.
Load Shedding
What is load shedding?
Load shedding is a controlled manner of reducing load when the demand for electricity is reaching the
maximum supply capacity. Should the demand not be reduced, the national electrical grid will become unstable
and is at severe risk of a total collapse. Load shedding schedules are drawn up to ensure a controlled, fair
and transparent manner of reducing load. The load shedding schedule can be found at www.durban.gov.za.
Is load shedding a last resort to reduce demand and maintain network stability?
Yes. Simply explained, the supply and demand of electricity has to be in constant balance. When the demand
approaches the supply and threatens to exceed it, the national system operator calls for all power stations
to operate at full capacity and implements demand side load reduction measures.
For example:
Supplemental Demand Response - Eskom will ask qualifying participants to reduce loads
to assist in lowering the total electricity demand on the
national grid. In return participants will receive financial
compensation for the energy not consumed during this
period.
Should the load reduction measures prove unsuccessful, then the system operator would have no choice but
to initiate load shedding to stabilise the electrical grid.
47
Notified Maximum Demand Rules (NMD)
How does the notified maximum demand rules work?
When you exceed your notified capacity (kVA) as reserved for you by the Municipality, you will be charged
based on the exceedance. This will increase your monthly Network Access Charge (NAC) by the Exceeded
Network Percentage (ENP). The ENP is calculated as the percentage difference between Maximum Demand
and Notified Maximum Demand (NMD).
Customers need to fill in the ‘ application The Planning Department will analyse and
for electrical connection form’ and submit determine if there is available capacity.
the document to customer services. A quotation will be created if additional
charges apply.
Upon payment of charges (if any) and acceptance Customers need to provide a meter card,
of the terms & conditions of the increased supply; confirming that the necessary work on their
the application will be finalised. side has been completed. Once received,
the depot will action the job. Customers then
need to lodge a valid COC for the increased
supply.
The Notified Maximum Demand will then be adjusted after approval at the start of the next financial
month.
DUDLEY
PRINGLE
Z IMPONDWENI
TONGAAT
MAMBUNDWINI INANDA
WATERLOO
NORTHERN UMDLOTI BEACH
PHOENIX
NORTHERN CUSTOMER
CENTRAL SERVICE CENTRE
BOTHAS HILL
CLAREMONT
MPUMALANGA HILLCREST
WESTVILLE
SPRINGFIELD
GILLITTS
PINETOWN CUSTOMER
SHONGWENI SERVICE CENTRE DURBAN CUSTOMER
SERVICE CENTRE
CATO MANOR
Z WELIBOMVU QUEENSBURGH
AREA UMLAZ I
BRUMONT SOUTHERN BLUFF
UMBUMBULU
ISIPINGO CUSTOMER
UMBOGINTWINI
SERVICE CENTRE
ADAMS
MISSION
ILLOVO
INDIAN OCEAN
UMGABABA
N
OLD DURBAN METROPOLITAN BOUNDARY
UNICITY BOUNDARY