Are you a contractor or a client embarking on a project in Sharjah? Navigating the various fees and regulations set by the Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA) can be a complex and time-consuming task. Often, this crucial information is hard to find, leading to project delays and unexpected costs.
This detailed guide breaks down SEWA’s essential fees for electricity, providing clarity and empowering you with the knowledge you need for seamless project planning and execution in Sharjah. We’ve compiled this information to be your go-to resource, saving you valuable time and effort. 🚀 Please note that this information might change from time to time. So consider it more of a reference and is accurate at the time of publishing.
Introduction to SEWA: Powering Sharjah’s Growth
The Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA) is the backbone of the Emirate’s infrastructure, ensuring reliable access to essential services. Under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, initiatives like “Rationalization Hour” highlight SEWA’s commitment to sustainable development and efficient resource management.
Understanding SEWA’s fee structure is paramount for anyone involved in construction and development in Sharjah. Let’s dive into the specifics.
SEWA Electricity Fees – Your Essential Guide
Electricity connection and service fees are a significant component of any project budget. This section demystifies the charges associated with obtaining and maintaining electricity services in Sharjah.
1.1 Electricity Connection Fees
SEWA categorizes electricity connection fees based on voltage type and consumer category.
A. Low Voltage Connection Fees (Dirhams per kVA)
| Category | Load (kVA) | Fee (Dirham/kVA) | Expedited Delivery Fee (Dirham/kVA) |
| Citizen Housing | 1-100 | 100 | Varies (difference from previous) |
| >100 | 150 | – | |
| Expatriate Housing | 1+ | 200 | – |
| Commercial/Industrial | 1+ | 1,000 | 1,500 |
| Farms | 1+ | 250 | – |
Important Note: For private residences requiring high voltage connections, the fee calculation follows the same categories as above.
B. High Voltage Connection Fees (Dirhams per kVA)
High voltage connections, often for larger commercial or industrial projects, are calculated based on the total transformer capacity.
| # | Category | Load (kVA) | Fee (Dirham/kVA) | Expedited Delivery Fee (Dirham/kVA) |
| 1 | Farmer | 50-250 | 200 | 200 |
| 2 | Commercial/Industrial | 200-1000 | 800 | 1,200 |
| 3 | Commercial/Industrial | 1001-3000 | 1,100 | 1,650 |
| 4 | Commercial/Industrial | 3001+ | 1,500 | 2,250 |
Key Considerations for High Voltage Connections:
- Fees are applied to the total load, not individual transformers.
- A 10% discount may be applicable to delivery fees for citizen housing only.
1.2 Temporary Electricity Delivery Fees
For projects requiring temporary power, SEWA charges a fee per kVA.
| # | Service | Type | Classification | Fees (Dirhams) |
| 1 | Temporary Delivery | All | Per kVA | 100 |
Additional Cost: A fixed charge of 1,500 Dirhams is applied for transformer connection. Contractors are responsible for providing all necessary materials.
1.3 Fines & Compensation for Tampering with Electricity Consumption
SEWA enforces strict penalties for tampering with electricity meters or direct connections. It’s crucial for both contractors and clients to be aware of these to avoid hefty fines and legal repercussions.
| # | Infraction | Fine (Dirhams) | Compensation |
| 1 | Tampering with Electricity Meter | 10,000 | Calculated difference in consumption post-adjustment |
| 2 | Direct Connection (1-20 kW) | 15,000 | Calculated difference in consumption post-adjustment |
| 3 | Direct Connection (21 kW & above) | 20,000 | Calculated difference in consumption post-adjustment |
B. Commercial/Industrial Penalties
| # | Infraction | Fine (Dirhams) | Compensation |
| 1 | Tampering with Electricity Meter | 20,000 | Calculated difference in consumption post-adjustment |
| 2 | Direct Delivery/Connection | 50,000 | Calculated difference in consumption post-adjustment |
Compensation Calculation Note: If the duration of tampering or direct connection cannot be accurately determined, compensation will be estimated based on the average consumption during summer months over a 21-month period.
1.4 Other Electricity-Related Fees & Services
Beyond connection fees, SEWA has charges for meter services, excavation, cable rerouting, and more.
| Service Category & Details | Fees (Dirhams) |
| Electricity Meter Fees | |
| New Meter Inspection (Single Face) | 150 |
| New Meter Inspection (Three Face) | 250 |
| New Meter Inspection (Counter) | 600 |
| Meter Value (Determined by prevailing prices) | Variable |
| Meter Change Fees (Category Changes) | |
| From One-Phase to Three-Phase | 250 |
| From Three-Phase to Three-Phase Converter | 700 |
| From Three-Phase to One-Phase | 150 |
| Meter Transfer Fees | |
| One-Phase | 100 |
| Three-Phase | 150 |
| Counter | 300 |
| Meter Re-Examination Fees (Customer Request) | |
| One-Phase | 100 |
| Three-Phase (Residential) | 150 |
| Three-Phase (Commercial) | 250 |
| Drilling & Cable Laying Fees (Per Meter) | |
| Private Housing / Farms / Commercial/Industrial (low-volume) | 55 |
| Commercial/Industrial (high-volume) | 130 |
| Emergency Cable Laying & Drilling Fees (Per Meter) | |
| Cable Size: 16-35 mm | Residential: 15 |
| Cable Size: 50-90 mm | Residential: 20 |
| Cable Size: 120-185 mm | Residential: 25 |
| Cable Size: 240-400 mm | Residential: 35 |
| Cable Rerouting Fees (If requested by owner) | |
| Residential Land | At Authority’s expense |
| Commercial/Industrial Land | Materials cost + 25% |
Conclusion: Empowering Your Projects in Sharjah
This detailed guide to SEWA fees and regulations aims to be an invaluable resource for MEP contractors, developers, and clients operating in Sharjah. By understanding these charges upfront, you can significantly improve your project planning, budgeting, and execution.
We hope this article fills a critical information gap and helps you navigate your projects in Sharjah with greater confidence and efficiency. For the most current and official information, always consult directly with the Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority.
