South African social grant recipients are set to benefit from a R500 electricity credit as part of a renewed support initiative scheduled to roll out in January 2026. The announcement has brought relief to many households facing rising utility costs, with the government describing the measure as part of broader efforts to ease living expenses for low-income families.
What the R500 Electricity Credit Is
The R500 electricity credit is a temporary support measure designed to assist eligible social grant beneficiaries with their monthly power costs. Instead of direct cash payments, the credit is applied to the beneficiary’s prepaid electricity account or account linked to municipal services, helping to reduce the burden of utility bills during the first month of the year.
Why the Scheme Is Being Reintroduced
Authorities explained that the return of the electricity credit programme was prompted by ongoing cost pressures affecting vulnerable households. With electricity tariff increases and constrained household budgets, the R500 credit aims to provide immediate relief and ensure that basic power needs remain affordable during the summer months.
Who Is Eligible for the R500 Credit
The credit is expected to be available to qualifying SASSA grant recipients, particularly those receiving the R350 Social Relief of Distress grant and other designated support categories. Beneficiaries may need to ensure that their account details, including prepaid meter or municipal account numbers, are correctly registered with SASSA or municipal systems to receive the credit.
How and When the Credit Will Be Allocated
The R500 electricity credit will be automatically applied to the eligible account before or during January 2026. Beneficiaries should see the adjustment reflected on their prepaid electricity meter or municipal billing statements once the programme is implemented. Officials have indicated that recipients do not need to apply separately, but must verify that their account data is up to date.
