Episode Transcript
[00:00:00] Hello and welcome everyone to the ESI Africa Podcast. I am Professor Vali Pariachi, your favorite power and energy guru.
[00:00:08] Today I'd like to discuss a pressing issue surrounding the Compliance Management Framework for Small Scale Embedded Generation or SSEG in South Africa.
[00:00:20] To begin, it's crucial to understand that SSEG has a significant impact on on the safety of the electricity suppliers, network and staff extending beyond the point of supply to include other customers connected to the electricity grid.
[00:00:39] The responsibility for the safe installation and operation lies not only with the SSEG user or lessor, but also with the electricity supplier.
[00:00:51] Electricity utilities like ESKOM and municipalities share this accountability to guarantee the overall safety of the system.
[00:01:01] This shared responsibility is the cornerstone of my most recent position paper on demystifying the Compliance Framework for the safe installation of SSEG in South Africa that I had written for the benefit and greater good of of South Africa Incorporated.
[00:01:24] Let me clarify that under the Electrical installation regulation of 2009, a supplier in relation to a particular electrical installation actually refers to any person who supplies or contracts to supply electricity to that installation.
[00:01:47] This definition encompasses eskom, municipal electricity utilities and other utilities that supply electricity to installations owned by users or lessors.
[00:02:01] Now let's delve deeper into the challenges we face.
[00:02:05] The adoption of SSEG technologies, particularly rooftop solar photovoltaic systems, is critical for transitioning South Africa from a high carbon to a low carbon economy.
[00:02:20] However, we are currently obstructed by seemingly inconsistent policies, varying interpretations of definitions, seemingly high compliance cost and unclear standards.
[00:02:35] To address these challenges, my position paper proposes a standardized, harmonized and affordable compliance management framework.
[00:02:47] This framework classifies SSEG installations into three categories category one small low voltage single phase systems up to 30kW category two medium sized low voltage three phase systems ranging from 30kW to 350kW and category three larger medium voltage three phase systems from 350kW to 1000kW.
[00:03:22] Two critical components of this framework are the Certificates of compliance or CoCs and the pricing or fees structure for Engineering Council of South Africa's or ECSA's professional sign offs.
[00:03:39] The current arrangements surrounding these areas have introduced significant ambiguities and seemingly unnecessarily high costs for potential SSEG users.
[00:03:54] As such, I propose a price range for COCs on of 1000 rands to 2000 rands, whilst excess sign offs should be set between 3000 rands and 6000 rands for minimal professional oversight and depending on installation size, fees for so called non normal activities like trying to establish the roofing integrity will be considered additional and billed separately between the developer installer directly with the owner or client.
[00:04:39] This pricing strategy aims to enhance affordability and clarity encouraging users to embrace SSEG technologies.
[00:04:53] Moreover, it is important to address non technical barriers hindering adoption, outdated credit management practices, unreasonable fixed charges and complex time of use tariffs can deter potential customers.
[00:05:11] By tackling these challenges alongside compliance, we can create a more inviting and conducive landscape for sseg.
[00:05:21] In conclusion, let's work together in a collaborative effort involving all stakeholders vis a vis electricity distributors, regulators, SSEG users and industry bodies to ensure a smooth transition towards sustainable energy solutions in South Africa.
[00:05:46] Thank you for tuning in today. I look forward to further engaging discussions on this vital topic.
[00:05:53] Together we can power a greener future for all South Africans. This is your favorite power and energy guru Professor Vali Pariachi signing off. Ciao for now. Until next time.
