Off the Grid with Solar Energy

Author: Joule Energy Solutions

Living in a world devoid of load-shedding is undoubtedly the dream of many South Africans, a world where we no longer rely on energy providers like Eskom for our professional and recreational needs.

What does the future hold for energy in our country, and how will it affect homes and businesses as we advance? With the lack of service delivery and collapsing infrastructure resulting in power outages affecting safety, productivity, and income, it's no wonder that more and more people are looking at "off the grid" solutions to the ongoing power crises. A potential solution to this conundrum is solar energy.

Solar is the current go-to form of renewable energy and a viable option in South Africa, which is ranked highly as a location for solar concentration. However, is getting "off the grid" a viable long-term solution and how easy would it be for home and business owners to convert?

Here are five (5) things to consider before making the move to solar power:

Budget - What are the costs involved? Find out how much the entire solar system would cost to purchase and install. In general, the more powerful the panel is, the more expensive it would be. Make sure your suppliers outline all the options available to you.
Suitability - Is your home or business suited for solar power installation? The first step to choosing and installing solar panels is determining if a solar panel installation is indeed beneficial for your home. Take the time to analyse the requirements and parameters prior to installing anything.
Installation space – Do you have the space required? The more power you need, the bigger the solar panels will be.
Energy consumption – Paying attention to your energy usage will enable you to determine the amount of electricity you consume. Less consumption means a small solar system would suffice and vice versa and solar harnessing should be set accordingly.
Regulations - The laws governing solar energy differ from those governing electrical systems and are also an important factor for consideration.

The installation of a solar-powered system is not a simple task, so DIY solar installations are not recommended. There are several important aspects to consider if one is to reap optimum benefits. For those unfamiliar with the installation criteria, it would be best to enlist the services of a professional, and this is where we come in.

Joule Energy Solutions are huge advocates for solar energy, but we also recognise the financial and practical implications. While solar is sustainable and ultimately cheaper than municipal or utility power in the long run, it does require significant up-front investment and doesn't work for every property. The ultimate question is whether the advantages of solar power outweigh the disadvantages.

Joule Energy Solutions has a team of highly trained and passionate consultants who are on a mission to provide reliable and sustainable energy solutions for all.

Follow these steps for empowering renewable solutions:

Call your nearest branch, and we’ll send out a consultant.

Your consultant will evaluate your needs according to your energy consumption and engineer a personalised solution.

Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that you need never be left in the dark again, as you watch your energy go from questionable to reliable.

For more information on how to ensure reliable energy solutions for your home or business, contact Joule Energy Solutions at:

CAPE TOWN
Tanzanite West
c/o Plattekloof Road & Tanzanite Street Montague Park, Montague Gardens
7441
salescpt@jouleenergysolutions.co.za
tel: 021 140 1087

BLOEMFONTEIN
46 Frikkie Van Kraayenburg St
New East End
Bloemfontein
9301
salesbfn@jouleenergysolutions.co.za
tel: 051 492 5818

JOHANNESBURG
39 Rennie Rd
Benoni North AH
Benoni