Energy relief package for small businesses

The Department of Small Business Development Minister, Ms. Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams is introducing the “LoadsheddingGrant” called Energy relief package, and below are the details.

Not so long ago, The Sowetan newspaper published a front cover with businesses (just a few from many others) that closed due to loadshedding. Many businesses are unable to function efficiently and many, had to shut their doors. At the same time, The Black Business Council (BBC) also sent a warning to the South African government mentioning 18,65% electricity tariff increase, together with Eskom’s stage 6 loadshedding, all those elements will further strangle the remaining few surviving small businesses.

What is the minister’s aim for granting Energy relief package?

In her own words, her “aim is to find immediate solutions that can be urgently effected to avoid disastrous consequences, such as closure of small businesses and job losses in the SMME sector. This sector is still recovering from the ruinous effects of COVID-19. We cannot afford losing more businesses and jobs,” Ndabeni-Abrahams said on Tuesday.

When will Energy Relief Package/grant start?

The Department of Small Business Development Minister, Ms. Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams is yet to give out the dates since she is still consulting with SEDA, SEFA and other stake holders. Details like dates, qualifying criteria or amounts will be confirmed at the same time as she mention dates.

Is Energy Relief Package a grant, funding or loan?

The Energy Relief Package assistance from The Department of Small Business Development, will be in a form of loans and must be paid back according to the stipulated terms, however, those loans will have a portion of grant in them.

What type or size of businesses qualify for Energy Relief Package?

The “Loadshedding” Energy Relief Package is for the small, medium, informal and micro sector businesses. The threshold, we are not sure.

How much is Energy Relief Package funding?

According to Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, this grant is meant to purchase, install or to upgrade your energy installation, for example: generators, solar power, UPS, inverters or other sources of power. But a smallest generator can range from R900 to R1.5 million rands according to the power your business require.

Types of businesses that qualify for Energy Relief Package.

Businesses that will qualify for Energy Relief Package are following:
-Restaurants and Fast food
-Funeral homes & mortuaries
-Fruit & Vegetables (Fresh, Frozen, Dried)
-more list coming

Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Tembisa Ndabeni-Abrahams contact details

Minister: Stella Tembisa Ndabeni-Abrahams, Ms
Postal Address: Private Bag X672, PRETORIA, 0001
Physical Address: The dtic, Block A, 3rd Floor, 77 Meintjies Street, Sunnyside, PRETORIA
Phone: 012 394 1813
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Stellarated

In conclusion, to properly use the Energy Relief Package grant,

  • It is important to first carefully read and understand the grant guidelines.
  • It is also important to have a detailed plan for how the grant funds will be used, including specific goals and milestones for the business.
  • It is also essential to keep accurate records and document all expenses related to the grant, as you will likely need to provide documentation of how the funds were used to The Department of Small Business Development.
  • Additionally, it is important to use the grant funds for their intended purpose and not for any personal expenses.

Jane Rambarly

Hello, I am Jane Rambarly, head of Education Author at Student Portal. With BA in Journalism and some skills in IT Tech, I hope I give you the best content you can rely on. I have been in many parts of the world and this distinct love of eaducanion news has led me to interesting individuals.