Writes, Joel Mathiba
Before investing in rooftop Solar, there are several things you need to consider about the technology and its limitations.
Energy crises in South Africa is fuelling a rush towards solar photovoltaic (PV) systems by households and businesses. Even the government is joining the push for Solar Energy as a remedy to Eskom’s power generation woes.
As part of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s interventions to address energy crisis, energy excess created by households, businesses and independent power producers will be sold to Eskom. There can be no doubt that Solar Energy has a key role to play in alleviating the power crisis in the country.
Investing in solar: Before investing in rooftop solar panels, households and businesses should understand that the biggest drawback facing the current solar power solution is that solar energy is only generated while the sun is shining. This would not be an issue if there were low-cost ways to store energy on sunny days. Batteries are the most expensive components of solar power system and tend to wear out quickly. Also the start-up of setting up an off-grid solar solution can cost a minimum of R160 000.
The good news is that prospective solar users do not need to invest in a fully off-grid solar system at once. They can gradually grow their systems until the property is fully powered by solar energy.
Banks and other lenders are capitalising on the growing demand for solar energy by funding solar installations. Government is also offering 25% rebate on the cost of new rooftop solar panels, up to a maximum of R15 000. Meaning when you spend R40 000 on solar panels, SARS will reimburse R10 000. This is significantly minimizing the barrier to entry for installing solar power.
Choose the right solar system installer: Before installing solar system at your residence or business, you must seek the help of PV System Solar Specialist. PV Specialist are able to advice on the exact needs after assessment of your property, and are familiar with the regulations that govern solar installation.
Furthermore, installation must be done and signed off by qualified and registered electrician through issuing of certificate of compliance.
Tbas Solar Power Supplies and Installations is a registered company supplying high quality solar products which are installed by highly qualified team of engineers. We service Limpopo province and part of Mpumalanga (Lowveld). We offer free after-sale service and provide financial assistance to qualifying clients. See our advert for contact details and office address.
The writer, Joel Mathiba is the Managing Director of Tbas Solar Power Supplies and Installations.