Getting Partially Off the Grid

We hear many South Africans, frustrated by the frequent bouts of power outages and load-shedding, talking about going off the Eskom grid and becoming entirely electrically independent. 

Solar power

But, is it a good idea then to simply appoint an installation company to replace your entire utility power supply with an instant solar-powered system? 
 

Firstly, whilst this system may have long-term benefits, it involves an expensive initial outlay -  though you could opt instead for a rent-to-own solar panels solution to avoid these upfront costs.
 

Secondly, solar energy is unreliable as it is only effective when there is regular sunshine and good weather conditions and so, if you're off the grid 100%, you will need a battery backup system to provide power at night, in inclement weather conditions and for when your system is undergoing maintenance.
 

It might be better to make smaller,less expensive changes in your home - but not necessarily all at once - to become more energy efficient instead of just getting more equipment to power your current home. Making your home more energy efficient makes it a more valuable asset especially with today's trend of going green or going off grid. Here are some suggestions... 

Gas power

LPG gas is an affordable, efficient, easy to install and cost-effective energy solution. Switch to gas powered appliances which are reasonably affordable and their running costs are minimal.

• Gas generators - are quiet and emit few fumes.
• Gas geysers - are usually a first-choice alternative for electric geysers which are huge consumers of a home's electricity
• Gas stoves - large gas stoves can be permanently installed or small and portable as backup for when there is no electricity.
• Gas braais - can be in-built or small and portable.

Battery power

Battery power is another alternative source of energy costing - approximately - from R15,000 to R50,000 - excluding installation. This may be unaffordable for the majority of homeowners but here is an idea of the functionality each level typically may offer during power outages:

Low-end battery system

Comprises a charger, inverter, and battery.

This limited system includes two 100Ah 12V batteries and an inverter capable of providing 1,000W continuously and 1.2kWh. 

This will enable the following functions:

• 4-6 LED lights (24W)
• A TV and a decoder (30W when off, 150W when in use)
• Cellphone charger (0.5W when not charging, 6W when charging)

Medium battery system

Is suitable for an average three-bedroom house where usage will be limited to a load of 480W.

It has a total of two 200 Ah 12V batteries and inverter that can provide 2,400 Watt continuously and 2.4kWh.

This will enable the following functions:

• 10-15 LED or CFL lights
• A TV and a decoder (30W when off, 150W when in use)
• One energy-efficient fridge/freezer on, managed well (100W - 200W)
• A laptop (65W while charging)

High-end battery system 

Is suitable for bigger houses, small offices, and shops that want to be unaffected by loadshedding. It is limited to a load of 960W.

It has a total of four 200 Ah 12V batteries and inverter that can provide 4,000 Watt continuously and 4.8kWh.

This will enable the following functions:

• All lighting and a TV
• Multiple fridges and freezers, opened as little as possible
• Laptops and a printer

As none of these alternative energy sources alone seems to be an ideal solution, perhaps a combination of all three would best achieve a more cost-effective and reliable energy solution.
 

Here are some other simple, easy, cheaper suggestions to help you to start becoming energy efficient:

• Replace all your light bulbs with LED light bulbs.
• Use a solar cell charger, a car phone charger, or a cell phone power bank.
• Use rechargeable lights.
• Buy surge protector plugs for your television, computer and fridge.

Property owners can choose to go off the grid by becoming 100% self-sufficient, or partially off grid, by installing energy-efficient and environment-friendly solutions. It's a personal choice - dictated by costs, needs and the functionality each option offers.
 

However, implementing some of the suggestions here would be beneficial to both your electricity bill and consumption and upgrade the value of your home. With energy-efficiency being a top of mind trend, a home less dependent on the grid creates a better investment opportunity.
 

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