Energy independence is the dream for many South African households, but can it be done incrementally, and without the massive cash injection, most solar conversions require? Eskom CEO André de Ruyter warned South Africans in January of 2020 that Loadshedding was going to be a reality for us, for at least 18 months, probably more. Based on this it would seem that the big man himself has given us our marching orders!
Get off-grid.
One Solar Panel at a Time
Some things to consider as you plan your escape from the grid:
- What type of home do you have?
- Who shares your house with you?
- How much electricity do you currently use?
- Do you want to be completely off the grid, or simply less reliant on Eskom?
The Options
In South Africa, Solar, gas, and battery systems are our main options for residential alternatives.
Solar Power
With its abundant sunshine, even in winter, South Africa is well-positioned for solar energy as a residential alternative.
Solar Panels
A solar panel is made up of Photovoltaic Cells that generate direct current from sun rays. With an inverter, this is converted to alternating current, which is what your house runs on.
DIY It
Probably not. Installing a well-structured and safe solar-powered system isn’t easy.
To get the most out of your solar power system you are going to need a professional to assess and install a correctly sized and specified system, based on the needs of your house.
One Step at a Time
Look into getting a solar geyser as a start. You will save on the cost of electricity or gas and will be able to take warm showers when the rest of the country is suffering from Loadshedding chills.
Installation of a full solar geyser with a solar panel and geyser tank costs anywhere between R14 800 and R27 200, depending on the size of geyser.
Gas
Gas Geysers are cheaper than solar options, but factor in that you would be buying gas.
Full installation of a gas water heating system ranges between R9800 and R16 500 depending on the water flow rate you chose.
Battery Power
This is usually the go-to option for businesses that want to remain open during Loadshedding. However – the cost of a high-end battery system that generates enough power to keep the lights (and basically everything else) on for a large house can be prohibitively high at around R 50 000.00
Our Top Tip
A relatively small battery set up, that can generate 1 000 W continuously (1,2kWh) can be more affordable at approximately R15 000.00. With this you should be able to charge a few devices, run the television and one or two lights
Wind Energy
Although South Africa does have abundant sunshine, we also have some pretty spectacular weather in the form of storms and windstorms. If you live in a more rural area and have the space, a backyard wind turbine might be an option for you.
For under R15 000 you can get a wind turbine generator for your rooftop. The technology, long already in use in other parts of the world is still pretty new in South Africa, but why not look into it?
