Man lighting candles in a dark South African home during load shedding with several candles already lit on the table in front of him

From Candles to Solar: Load Shedding Solutions Ranked (2026)

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Introduction 

Load shedding is still part of life in South Africa. Even when things improve, power cuts and outages still happen often. PHD Powerhouse offers a wide range of backup power solutions to keep you covered no matter the stage. 

That is why more homes are finding better ways to stay powered. The trick is choosing the right solution for your budget and needs. 

 

Understanding Your Power Needs 

What Must Stay On? 

Start by choosing your most important items. These are things you cannot go without. 

This usually includes WiFi, a few lights, and your fridge. 

How Much Power Do You Need? 

Add up the power used by your devices. Then multiply by how many hours you need backup. 

This helps you choose the right system size. 

Picking the Right Level 

There are four main levels: 

  • Budget 
  • Mid-range 
  • Premium 
  • Ultimate 

Each level gives more power, but costs more. 

 

BUDGET (Under R5,000): Basic Survival 

Solution #1: LED Lights + Power Banks 

Cost: ±R500–R1 500 

What You Get 

You get rechargeable lights and power banks. These help with lighting and charging phones. 

They are simple and easy to use. 

Pros and Cons 

  • ✓ Very cheap 
  • ✓ Easy to carry 
  • ✗ No power for appliances 
  • ✗ Limited use 

Best For 

Students or anyone needing a quick, low-cost fix. 

 

Solution #2: Small Inverter + Car Battery 

Cost: ±R2 000–R4 000 

What You Get 

This setup gives you basic plug power. You can run a router, lights, and maybe a TV. 

It is a simple step up from power banks. 

Pros and Cons 

  • ✓ Can power small appliances 
  • ✓ Affordable 
  • ✗ Not strong enough for big devices 
  • ✗ Needs manual setup 

Best For 

Working from home with basic needs. 

 

Solution #3: Portable Power Station 

Cost: ±R4 000–R8 000 

What You Get 

This is an all-in-one battery with plugs. It is easy to use and safe for electronics. 

You just charge it and use it when needed. 

Pros and Cons 

  • ✓ Plug and play 
  • ✓ Safe for devices 
  • ✓ Portable 
  • ✗ Limited capacity 
  • ✗ Higher cost for size 

Best For 

Renters and people who move often. 

 

MID-RANGE (R5,000–R25,000): Everyday Comfort 

Solution #4: UPS + Battery 

Cost: ±R5 000–R12 000 

What You Get 

A UPS system keeps your devices on without switching off. It works great for computers and WiFi. 

It also protects against sudden power cuts. 

Pros and Cons 

  • ✓ No downtime 
  • ✓ Good for electronics 
  • ✗ Limited power 
  • ✗ Not for heavy loads 

Best For 

Home offices and students. 

 

Solution #5: 1.5kVA Inverter + Battery 

Cost: ±R8 000–R15 000 

What You Get 

This inverter setup powers key parts of your home. Lights, TV, WiFi, and a fridge can run. 

It feels much closer to normal living. 

Pros and Cons 

  • ✓ Powers essentials 
  • ✓ Can be upgraded 
  • ✗ Needs installation 
  • ✗ Battery replacement later 

Best For 

Small to medium family homes. 

 

Solution #6: 3kVA Inverter System 

Cost: ±R18 000–R25 000 

What You Get 

You can run most home essentials at once. This includes fridge, freezer, lights, and TV. 

It handles longer outages much better. 

Pros and Cons 

  • ✓ Strong and reliable 
  • ✓ Automatic switching 
  • ✗ More expensive 
  • ✗ Takes up space 

Best For 

Larger families or frequent outages. 

 

 

PREMIUM (R25,000–R75,000): Smart Power 

Solution #7: Hybrid Inverter + Lithium Battery 

Cost: ±R35 000–R55 000 

What You Get 

This system can use solar and lithium battery power. It is smart and saves money over time. 

It also lasts longer than basic systems. 

Pros and Cons 

  • ✓ Solar ready 
  • ✓ Long battery life 
  • ✓ Smart features 
  • ✗ High upfront cost 

Best For 

Homes planning to go solar. 

 

Solution #8: Three-Phase UPS 

Cost: ±R45 000–R70 000 

What You Get 

This is a strong system for serious needs. It keeps power steady with no interruptions. 

It is often used in businesses. 

Pros and Cons 

  • ✓ Very reliable 
  • ✓ Protects equipment 
  • ✗ Expensive 
  • ✗ Complex setup 

Best For 

Businesses and critical systems. 

 

Solution #9: Full Solar + Battery System 

Cost: ±R65 000–R90 000 

What You Get 

This home solar system can power most of your home using solar energy. 

You rely less on Eskom and save on bills. 

Pros and Cons 

  • ✓ Big savings 
  • ✓ Long-term solution 
  • ✗ High cost 
  • ✗ Needs space and setup 

Best For 

Families wanting energy independence. 

 

ULTIMATE (R75,000+): Total Power Freedom 

Solution #10: Solar + Battery + Generator 

Cost: ±R100 000–R150 000 

What You Get 

This setup keeps everything running. Even during long outages, you stay powered. 

It uses solar, batteries, and a generator together. 

Pros and Cons 

  • ✓ Full backup 
  • ✓ Very reliable 
  • ✗ Very expensive 
  • ✗ Needs expert setup 

Best For 

Large homes and businesses. 

 

Solution #11: Off-Grid System 

Cost: ±R80 000–R120 000 

What You Get 

This system does not rely on Eskom at all. It is fully independent. 

It is common in rural areas. 

Best For 

Farms and remote homes. 

 

Solution #12: Grid-Tied Solar with Battery 

Cost: ±R90 000–R140 000 

What You Get 

You use solar during the day and batteries at night. Extra power can go back to the grid. 

This helps you save money. 

Best For 

Homes wanting both savings and backup. 

 

Quick Comparison 

Solution  Cost  Power Level  Best For 
LED + Power Bank  Low  Very Low  Students 
Small Inverter  Low  Low  Basic WFH 
Power Station  Low  Low  Renters 
UPS  Medium  Medium  Office 
1.5kVA Inverter  Medium  Medium  Families 
3kVA Inverter  Medium  High  Bigger homes 
Hybrid Solar  High  High  Solar homes 
Full Solar  High  Very High  Independence 
Ultimate System  Very High  Maximum  Businesses 

 

How to Choose the Right Option 

Start With Your Budget 

Choose what you can afford now. You can always upgrade later. 

Think About Your Needs 

Decide what must stay on during load shedding. 

Plan for the Future 

Pick a system that can grow with you. 

 

Is It Worth It? 

Power cuts cost money and time. Food spoils, work stops, and stress builds up. 

A good backup system saves money over time and makes life easier. 

 

Power Your Life Smarter: Final Thoughts 

There is no perfect solution for everyone. The best choice depends on your budget and lifestyle. 

Start small if you need to, but choose wisely. Even a simple system can make a big difference. 

The goal is simple: stay powered, stay connected, and stay stress-free during load shedding.