Escaping the Eskom crisis Part 2; common questions people ask about Solar Installations.

With our energy grid in a constant state of flux, homeowners are moving towards seeking alternate sources of energy. Fed up with an unreliable utility, solar and wind are hot and trending topics. But beyond high upfront costs, choosing the right system for your home can be an enormous project.

Last month, we discussed all the basics behind solar installations, their costs, when it's best to install, and how. And while we believe we covered most of the pointers surrounding solar in your home, there is a list of frequently asked questions that we will attempt to answer to mitigate any concerns.

We continue our chat with David Elliot, Managing Director of Pro IT Services, to get a deeper insight into solar installations while challenging a few myths surrounding going off the grid.
 

How does solar power actually work?

Image Source: Bordgaisenergy.ie 

Solar power is essentially DC current energy extracted from regular sun rays and converted to usable power through the solar panels fitted on your home's exterior. Because most households require an AC current, a further stage is required to convert the energy. This is where your inverter comes in. Once the energy is converted to AC current, it is ready to be used throughout the home, and excess generation is stored in backup batteries.
 

How well does solar work on cloudy days?

As our [previous article] discussed, home solar installations only generate energy during the day. There are 6 - 8 hours of direct sunlight, and while solar can work during cloudy days, their generating capacity is reduced by at least 50%. This is why backup battery storage is essential. Weather may be erratic, but your access to power needs to stay constant.
 

Is roof positioning important?

Image Source: Solarplumbing.co.za

Yes, roof orientation is essential and will make a massive difference in terms of how much energy is produced throughout the property. While a north-facing position will achieve maximum sunlight during the day, ask your installer to make provisions should your house's orientation be less than ideal.

How much does it cost?

This is all highly dependent on the size of your home and the type of system you have installed. Each system is unique, and calculating a return on investment can be difficult. However, on average, a complete solar installation can cost anywhere from R80k - R150K. On the positive side, should you're home be put up on the market, you can make a considerable amount back, given how popular off-the-grid solutions have become in South Africa.
 

Can I feed it back into the grid?

The South African government has been all over the place regarding feeding back into the grid. Some local municipalities allow you to do so, while for others, it's illegal. The City of Cape Town is one such municipality which allows for feedback. But in terms of return, it is not as viable as you think. A report from Business Insider suggests that it may take up to 7 years of feedback before you break even.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his recent SONA address, specifically mentioned feedback tariffs and how the government will be looking into making this a more viable pathway for the future.
 

Do I need to clean my solar panels?

While most solar panels are self-sufficient and are effective at self-cleaning in the rain, dry spats and long periods without rain may require your attention. Dust buildup, debris, bird droppings, etc., will reduce their energy production capacity over time as they cover the panels. Regardless of the weather, it's always a good idea to check up on your panels at least once every two months. You may clean them with a hose or cloth as you see fit.

Can I use solar to heat water?

A common misconception is floating around that solar panels directly heat the water stored in your home geyser system and creates hot water. This is simply not the case. While solar energy generated by your system can be used to power your water heating system, the system does not directly heat water.

How will solar increase the value of my home?

While we still traverse a strong buyers' market, additional quality-of-life improvements like solar and sound security systems are big sellers in South Africa. Solar installations do add value to your home, even in more modest markets. The added benefit of a self-contained energy system and lower electricity bills is a no-brainer for savvy investors.

Does going solar help the environment?

Image Source: Twitter.com

As a renewable energy source, solar energy is both environmentally friendly and sustainable. Self-sufficient homes are less reliant on the grid, which means less strain on generating capacity and a push towards a more eco-friendly environment.

For more information regarding solar installations in your home, consider visiting Pro IT Services for a professional and reliable solar build breakdown. 

Email: sales@proitservices.co.za.

If you want to buy or sell your home, contact one of our Real Estate Property Practitioners by following the link: https://www.homesofdistinction.co.za/agents/

Homes of Distinction CC holds a Fidelity Fund Certificate issued by the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority.