SOLAR - POWER TO THE PEOPLE

Does installing a solar system add actual value to your home? Ask yourself as a buyer - would you find it appealing to avoid some, if not all, of the agony of loadshedding?  

We're unlikely to install a solar system just to add value to our homes, but it certainly sweetens the package for buyers. 

Clearly, we're all doing what we can - or can afford - to mitigate the impact of loadshedding. No matter what we're told by those with a finger on the switch, the experts say it's here to stay for the foreseeable future, and likely to escalate. 

Solar. Inverters. Generators. Emergency lights. Candles. You name it. Clearly for many, installing off-the-grid systems are unaffordable, but it stands to reason, buyers are drawn to the newer estates which had - or have - the advantage of designing and installing off-the-grid elements from the outset. 

But for those who can afford it, or those who, more financially constrained, choose to roll out the solar system bit by bit, there's little doubt that harnessing the sun's power is the clean, clever route in sunny South Africa. 

'It's so expensive,' is the standard cry. But is it? Government is assisting with a 25 percent tax rebate for a short time, but on solar panels only, not the entire system. There are specific parameters which fall under the rebate - only new and unused solar panels qualify, they must be connected to the home's main electricity board, and must be installed in a residence (there is a different offer for businesses, and certain caveats for sectional title complexes and body corporates). There are numerous reputable solar companies which will assist you in doing the inevitable maths around affordability, but do investigate the packages on offer to soften the blow. Everything from rent-to-buy to outright purchase of equipment...to (more) attractive loans, which are being offered by banks. 

There's no doubt, if you're selling a home with installed solar power, it's a drawcard. It's even more relevant today because so many people work from home. Many have installed simple UPS/inverter systems costing around R8 000 to R10 000 to power key elements such as a computer, printer, wi fi, a light etc - all dependent on the load you're drawing - but if you need more than that, a solar system is well worth looking at. 

One of the most important considerations is to choose a reputable, registered company to assist you. Fly-by-nights and DIY-ers are rife, so don't be tempted by amazing bargains. The Ombudsman has received hundreds of complaints ranging from no compliance certificates to goods not being delivered or delayed installation. 

Most of us know very little about going off or partially off the grid. There are all kinds of words and concepts bandied around, but bottom line, you need an expert. Do your homework well - there are different kinds of solar panels, different brands, and of course, your requirements. For example, you can be Off Grid - complete freedom from Eskom - you can be Grid Tied - you generate, but don't store your own power (no battery included); and Hybrid, where you automatically switch between Eskom and Battery and Solar as needed.  

Reputable solar companies will assist you in determining your energy requirements. It's wise to get a few quotes on the system size, price, brand, model, and estimated energy production. Agree on an installation schedule. Make absolutely sure to get warranties for both the panels and the installation work, and consider insuring your solar system - talk to your broker, there are different types of insurance available.  

Marc and Kendall Snyman have just installed solar, using the company recommended by a family member who'd just used them. Recommendation or not, they still obtained a second quote, and the first company came up less expensive. "We love it here in Durban - and South Africa - so to stay here, we realised we needed to do certain things to make life enjoyable. We're lucky we had the money to get started, but it is really, really so well worth it. Sometimes, we don't even know that loadshedding is happening. It's been one of the best investments in our home."

The couple knew what they wanted to power, and together with their supplier, married it to their budget of R150 000: "The company first assessed our home. We discussed what our main appliance needs are during the day, particularly during kids' dinnertime. And we really wanted our air-conditioning in summer. That list determined what size inverter and storage we needed - we were really clueless, so relied fully on 'our guy' to explain everything. He returned twice to give us tutorials on how to read the meters etc.  We knew we could add on to the system when we could afford it."  

They installed an inverter with 2 x 5.5kw batteries and 12 solar panels: "We began with a single battery, then realised we needed a second and installed it." Their three geysers are off the solar system, as is the oven, so they are still connected to Eskom.  

"We're saving at least 50 percent of our energy bill, and we really enjoy watching the meter going backwards..."  

The Snymans are a young family, in a large home, with years there ahead of them. It made perfect sense to install a solar system, one to which they can add. "We have a panel-off with our neighbours...they're up to 20 panels," they grinned. One of the great aspects too, is that it's all monitorable, usually on your cellphone. You can see the saving, while you're enjoying the power.