Electricity is a basic need. It powers our lights, our stoves, our kettles, and even our phones. But for many households in South Africa, paying for electricity every month can be hard. That’s why the Free Basic Electricity (FBE) program was introduced — to give qualifying families some free electricity every month.
If you have a prepaid electricity meter, and your household is registered as indigent with your local municipality, you could be getting 50–60kWh of free electricity every month. That’s real savings — money back in your pocket.
Let’s break it all down and help you see if you qualify, how to apply, and how to claim your free power!
What is Free Basic Electricity?
The Free Basic Electricity (FBE) program is a government initiative that gives low-income households a limited amount of free electricity each month.
This electricity can be used for:
Lights
A small radio or TV
Boiling water
Charging phones
Cooking small meals
It’s enough to help you manage your essentials without having to pay for it out of your own pocket.
How Do I Know If I Qualify?
To qualify for Free Basic Electricity, you need to meet these three simple conditions:
You use a prepaid electricity meter
Your household is registered as indigent with the municipality
You receive other free basic services (like free water)
That’s it. If all three of these are true for you, you most likely qualify for FBE.
What is an “Indigent Household”?
An indigent household is a family that earns below a certain income level — usually less than R3,500 a month (this can vary by area). These households are considered to be in need and are eligible for extra support from the government.
To be registered as indigent, you need to apply through your local municipality.
How to Register as Indigent
If you are not sure whether you’re already registered, or if you think you qualify and want to apply, follow these steps:
Visit your local municipal office
Bring:
Your South African ID
Proof of income (if unemployed, you can write an affidavit)
Proof of residence (like a municipal bill or letter)
Ask for the Indigent Support Program application form
Fill in the form and submit your documents
If approved, your household will be officially listed as indigent and you will qualify for Free Basic Electricity and other free basic services.
How Much Free Basic Electricity Can I Get?
The amount you get depends on your municipality. Most people receive either:
50kWh per month, or
60kWh per month
For example:
In Cape Town, if you use under 250kWh/month, you get 60kWh free
In Johannesburg, indigent households get 50kWh free
Even though this may seem like a small amount, it can cover your basic needs, especially if you use energy-efficient appliances.
Related: Eskom Electricity Price Hike from 1 April 2025 – What You Need to Know
How to Claim Your Free Basic Electricity
Claiming your Free Basic Electricity is quick and easy, especially if you’re using your phone.
Step 1: Enter your meter number
You’ll need your prepaid electricity meter number. This is usually printed on the meter itself or on a previous token receipt.
Step 2: Get your free token
You can get your FBE token using one of these ways:
USSD Code (no airtime needed):
Dial *130*869# or *130*269# (check what works in your area)
Online:
Visit this site
At your local shop:
Visit a spaza or vendor who sells electricity. Ask for your free basic electricity token and give them your meter number.
Step 3: Enter the token into your meter
Once you get your token, type the numbers into your prepaid meter. That’s it. You now have free power to use for the month.
How Much Can You Save?
Let’s break it down:
50kWh of electricity = about R100 to R120 (depending on tariffs)
That means you could be saving over R1,000 a year
That money can go towards food, transport, school items, or savings
What Can 50kWh Get Me?
Here’s a rough idea of how far 50kWh can go:
| Appliance | Usage (hours per day) | Days per month | kWh Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 LED lightbulbs | 4 | 30 | 9.6 |
| Radio | 3 | 30 | 2.7 |
| Electric kettle (15min/day) | 0.25 | 30 | 3.75 |
| Small fridge | 24 | 30 | 15 |
| Charging phones | 2 phones daily | 30 | 3 |
| TV | 2 | 30 | 6 |
| TOTAL | 40.05 kWh |
You’ll even have a few units left to spare.
Common Questions
Q: What if I use more than 50kWh?
No problem. You can still buy electricity like normal after your free units are used up.
Q: Can I get free basic electricity every month?
Yes. As long as you’re registered and claim your token, you will get your free electricity each month.
Q: What if I move to another house?
You’ll need to update your meter number with the municipality to continue receiving FBE.
Q: What if I have a conventional meter?
FBE is only available for prepaid meters. You can apply to have your meter changed if you’re eligible.
Tips to Stretch Your Free Electricity
Use LED bulbs
Switch off lights and appliances when not in use
Boil only as much water as needed
Use blankets or warm clothing instead of heaters
Unplug phones when they’re fully charged
Stay Updated
Municipal rules and limits can change. Stay informed by:
Visiting your local municipal office
Checking their official website
Joining your local community WhatsApp groups or Facebook pages
Spread the Word
Many people don’t know about Free Basic Electricity. Share this with your family, friends, or neighbours — it could help them save every month too.
