Once your panels are producing, a tempting question follows: can I sell the extra back to the grid? In Johannesburg the answer is "sort of" — but for most homes there is a smarter way to capture that value.
The short answer
Feeding solar back is possible under City Power's framework, but it requires SSEG registration, the correct (bi-directional) metering, an approved grid-tied inverter, and compliance sign-off. The tariff paid for exported power is modest.
Why self-use usually wins
The credit for power you export is low compared to the value of simply using your own solar to avoid buying expensive grid power. Rand for rand, every unit you self-consume is worth far more than every unit you export. So the goal is to use as much of your own generation as possible.
Batteries beat feed-in for most homes
Adding battery storage lets you use your solar in the evening and ride out load-shedding — two things that deliver far more value than a small export credit. That is why we design around self-use and backup first.
Design it for value
If exporting genuinely suits your situation we will set it up compliantly — but more often we will show you why a self-use-and-battery design pays back faster. See solar power or get a system designed around your usage.