Choosing the Right Solar Installation Partner
As South Africa grapples with the constant back-and-forth between load shedding stages 4 and 6 - and now potentially stage 8 - by Eskom, an increasing number of households and businesses are turning to solar power combined with battery storage for relief and minimal disruptions from no access to power. To navigate this crucial transition, SOLARWORLD Africa offers valuable advice, ensuring consumers and businesses partner with the right solar solution provider.
Gregor Kuepper, Managing Director of SOLARWORLD Africa (Pictured below), has observed a significant surge in renewable energy adoption during ongoing loadshedding and as businesses seek alternative power solutions. However, he cautions that with this increased demand, inexperienced and unreliable solar suppliers and installers may emerge, lacking the necessary expertise to offer the best solar solutions and professional installation.
“While efficiency, size and price are primary considerations when opting for solar power and battery storage, the key to selecting the most suitable solution lies in seeking guidance from trusted experts and heeding their advice,” he explains.
Here are the six essential tips from SOLARWORLD Africa to help individuals and businesses, especially those new to renewable energy, find a knowledgeable and respected installer that can recommend the right solar and battery storage solution and partners:
Evaluate the Installer's Track Record:
Choose a solar installer with extensive expertise in the industry, access to the best solar products, and a deep understanding of complex policies. “Policies and utility standards specific to your location can significantly impact the return on investment of your solar solution. By checking the company's references and customer feedback, you can make an informed decision regarding who you partner with, and the products you choose to have installed.”
Understand Solar Panels and Battery Storage Synergy:
It’s essential to understand the interplay between solar panels and battery storage. The household battery system stores energy from solar panels and can also be charged from the grid. This stored energy can be used later, enabling uninterrupted power supply day and night.
Confirm Product Compatibility:
“Enquire about the technology's simplicity of integration into your current power system. Consider the efficiency and materials used in the solar panels and systems. Knowing the system's total energy production over its lifetime and the installation timeline is essential, especially when running a business.”
Verify Product Certification and Quality:
“It's best to opt for high-quality solar and battery technologies with certifications that ensure system reliability. Product certifications offer you peace of mind and maximise your long-term savings.”
Ensure Future Durability with Product Warranties:
“Make sure you have reliable technology, performance guarantees, and product warranties to support the production and lifespan of individual components in your solar and battery system. This will give you confidence in your chosen products and installation partners. It's crucial to understand the warranties and coverage for the products involved.”
Prioritise After-Sales Support:
Select solar partners with a proven track record and a commitment to long-term support – this applies to the products and the team installing them. Investing in a quality solar product ensures longevity and maximises the value of your solar system for decades to come, and having them installed by trusted experts leaves no room for error.”
Kuepper emphasises the importance of a tailored approach to recommend and provide various solar energy solutions and products. He advises consumers to consider their electricity consumption needs, financial viability, and long-term benefits while conducting research to gain confidence in their solar installer and the products they choose.
For assistance in finding the right solar solution, contact SOLARWORLD Africa through their website or call 021 421-8001.