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Steps-to-take-when-installing-solar-power-in-South-Africa

Steps to Take When Installing Solar Power in South Africa

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Key Takeaways to Consider for My Solar System in SA?

There are a couple of key points to consider when installing your Photo-voltaic power system. Do you have enough space for the solar system you need? Are you mounting your solar system on the ground or on your roof?

The location of your system will determine how many panels you could install. This form of clean power will save you money. Today, solar power is more affordable, with competitive prices for renewable energy.

4 Common Questions We Ask When Installing a Solar System.

1. Is my roof solid? Will installing PV panels damage my roof?

Roofs that are not sound in structure cannot support solar panels. Solar panels could damage the roof further. Asbestos and thatch roofs are not ideal for solar installation.

Talk to PHD Powerhouse for information. We can guide and assist if you are uncertain about how to go about installing your solar system. Once you have the knowhow, you can hire solar installers in your area.

2. Is My Property Positioned Correctly an Effective Solar Array?

South Africa boasts many sunshine days every year. To get the best power supply from the sun in South Africa, position your solar panels facing north. North-west and north-east are also suitable, but the latter two are less favourable.

If you have tall trees or other buildings in the area that obstruct sunshine, it’s best to move the solar panel installation to a spot that catches the most rays throughout the day.

3. What is the Best Angle to Install My Solar System at?

There is no one-size-fits-all case scenario. Renewable energy generation depends entirely on the location. Solar energy works best at angles ranging from 5 to 35 degrees. A good average for winter and summer is 30 degrees.

Never install your solar panels lying flat. The reason is that dust and dirt cannot wash off with rain if they are flat. With help from the right solar company, you can find the optimal angle for your needs so your solar array can be effective and last long.

4. Why Is Battery-Backup So Effective?

Battery backup is the most effective and reliable way to save solar energy for later use. They are a good backup option when the electricity supply from your utility company fails. A system using a battery source should have the correct size in KW and should be compatible with your other solar equipment.

Some smaller systems are ineffective. They cannot support an integrated battery. The power would not last for long. With a backup solar battery, you can ensure you get the most out of your solar panel installation.

5. Do I Need a Solar Geyser?

Because of affordable solar panel prices South Africa can enjoy the benefits of more solar energy. Some systems include a solar geyser. Solar geyser installation isn’t always included in solar systems, and whether you need one depends on your unique situation. They are useful for people who want an off grid solar system.

6. What About Installation Costs?

Solar installers in South Africa can charge a fair bit for solar installation, but in the long run, the costs will be worthwhile. As long as you can afford to pay a monthly amount to pay off your solar system, which is relatively low, you can afford a solar array.

Extras like solar lights, a solar geyser, and a solar battery bank may come at an additional cost. It’s important that you ensure you’re getting quality equipment installed by a reputable installer. In the long run, having to pay less for your utility bill will reduce the actual cost of your energy consumption.

Why Do We Use Solar Batteries & How Do They Work?

Solar batteries form a part of a solar power kit. The kit usually comprises an inverter, solar panels, switches, mounting, and cabling.

A solar battery stores solar power gathered by your solar panels. This will provide usable solar power during power outages and at night. The more downtime solar stored, the greater your independence from the grid.

The result is great savings on your electricity bill. As electricity tariffs soar, so does the demand for solar. Electricity shortages are commonplace as we move into 2022. What are your energy plans as you move into the new year?

Find Out More About Energy Management from your Energy Experts at PHD Powerhouse

You can find out everything you ever wanted to know about solar energy, solar energy systems, and battery backup systems. Our experts are ready to help reduce your electricity bills and advise you on your unique power requirements.

We are here to answer your questions. As electricity costs soar, and the electricity grid becomes increasingly unstable, it is time to implement Plan B!

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5 Reasons Going Solar in South Africa is a Good Idea

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The South African climate is ideally geared towards efficient solar. Most parts of South Africa enjoy an overabundance of sunshine annually. In some areas, South Africa has more than 2,500 hours of sunshine per year.

This is one of the highest in the world. We are perfectly positioned on the Equator and an ideal location for solar installation to be successful. The more light that solar panels receive, the more energy is generated. Solar can work on cloudy days, too.

5 Excellent Reasons for Getting Solar in South Africa

 

1. Clean Energy with No Non-Renewable Waste.

Solar energy is a clean and good for the environment. There are no emissions or pollutants created when using solar. This is unlike non-renewable power options.

Because solar produces no emissions and fumes, they do not need filters. Solar creates very little waste.

2. Energy Availability Factor in our Country.

Solar power gives you energy security. It is reliable, offering peace of mind. Rolling power cuts are here to stay.

Discovering alternative solutions is key. Solar is a reliable source of energy you can rely on, since it provides energy security. You won’t go through brown outs and blackouts with the rest of your neighbours who are on the main power grid.

As energy demands increase in our country, it becomes more vital to find other options. We can help our national power company meet their power requirement by installing solar. to supplement or replace grid power.

3. Protecting the Environment.

Solar panels produce zero carbon emissions. Reduce electricity consumption by installing solar. The capital cost of installation is soon recovered.

Get power stability and enjoy sustainable energy instead. Do your part by installing solar panels and a full solar system in your home or at your office. Solar is natural, and it can help reduce global warming.

4. Get Independant from the Grid.

Solar power gives you independence from the power grid. This is especially useful during load shedding. This form of clean energy will give you excess energy from the sun.

The utility grid is not stable. It is, therefore, important that we put solar action plans in place and use solar technology. With it, you can save on electricity bills and cut your reliance on other providers. Your electricity expenditure can drop drastically or even go down to zero depending on the solar power installation you go with.

With power demand growth, solar is the best way to get your energy independence. This form of clean power is free for all to use. Solar companies should be your partner of choice as the lights go out.

Reduce the carbon emission non-renewable uses. Use solar instead. This is one of the best breakthrough technologies everyone can use.

5. Create Jobs.

Solar power is creating jobs. Everyone involved in solar, from the sales people to the truck drivers, performs tasks. For this reason, the installation of solar panels on your home is supporting the small business sector.

Manufacturing of solar panels and the installation of solar systems creates jobs. Each job in the renewable energy sector is an opportunity to help our country flourish. If you are looking for solar energy solutions, PHD Powerhouse can help.

Use Solar and Keep the Lights On with PHD Powerhouse

You can reduce your environmental footprint with solar energy. This clean power will keep your lights on and save you money. Contact our team of professionals at PHD Powerhouse and find out everything about solar energy.

Are you ready to go independent from the energy sector? Are you serious about the environment? Let us help you keep the lights on and power your world with our state-of-the-art products. Solar is the best option for clean power without the cost.

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Everything You Need to Know About Installing Solar

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Are you looking into installing solar for a more reliable electricity supply? Here are the most important things you need to know about solar in South Africa.

You are not alone if you are considering going off the grid. Eskom is not in a good shape, and load shedding has become part of our daily world. The electricity grid is struggling to handle even its current load, making solar an important option in electricity markets.

Are you tired of price hikes and inferior service? Have your electronic devices been damaged by brown-outs, black-outs, dips, and surges? Going off the power grid might be the solution.

Find out everything you need to know if you are considering installing solar. What power requirements will you need? We explain a bit about solar energy systems.

  6 Things to Consider When Going Solar

  1. VAT. When costing your solar system, remember to factor VAT into any prices.
  2. Rate Increases. The annual current electricity rates increase by 15% per annum in South Africa.
  3. Sunlight Hours. South Africa gets an average of 4.5 hours of sunshine hours daily, and up to 9 hours during the summer months.
  4. Rent-to-Own Periods. The average period of rent-to-own solar systems is 60 months.
  5. Brands. Shopping around for the best prices will put you in good stead. Some brands cost more than others.
  6. Sizes. Prices will also vary depending on the size of the system and the brand name.
  7. Complexity. The complexity of solar installation could affect the pricing and ease of installation, too.

How Does a Solar System Work?

Solar panels are installed on the roof of a home or commercial building. Rooftop solar panels collect solar energy for electricity production. DC energy is a product of the converted energy.

Solar electricity is stored in batteries, which is the most common method of solar systems. Alternatively, the energy is fed directly by means of an inverter into the mains. AC electricity is then produced through the conversion of DC electricity by means of an inverter. This AC electricity powers electrical devices in your home.

The 3 Main Types of Solar Power Systems to Choose from

1. Going Completely Off-Grid

Being independent of the grid requires batteries. Solar batteries will enable your solar cells to function effectively. Electricity is stored in the batteries, and you can then access it when you need it.

2. Hybrid Solar Power Systems

A grid interactive solar power system or battery back-up system is similar to an off-grid solar system. The difference is that there is a connection to the power grid. A hybrid solar system is the most popular option for domestic solar systems.

With a hybrid or grid interactive system, you have the freedom of being off the grid, but also have a grid connection. Low-sunshine days are not a problem with this system, and you do not need a large battery bank either.

3. Grid-Tied Systems

With a grid-tied system, you can supplement your electricity. Grid-tied systems do not use any batteries. They work best when you have strong, direct sunlight.

This means there is no back-up system when there is low sunshine. You will also have no power at night. Grid tied systems are especially popular amongst commercial users because power usage is supplemented during peak hours.

For all your home solar systems, batteries, and more, contact us today to find out more. If you, like so many South Africans, have heard enough about Eskom, you can make the change today.

 

Sources: versofy:

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How to Choose the Right Inverter

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Your choice of inverter battery is vital. To get as many backup hours as possible, it’s important to choose the right inverter.

Step-By-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Inverter

The power has gone off again. What do you do? The power grid is ruthless and continues to disrupt our lives.

There is hope, however, in the form of inverters and the batteries that power them. Living in the era of inverters has become a necessity and not a luxury. The big question is, though, how do I choose the right inverter for my needs?

Step 1. Work Out How Much Power You’ll Need.

How much power is required for my inverter? This is the first question to ask when buying an inverter. What appliances will run off the inverter? Will it be a PC, lights, fluorescent lights, television, and kettle?

You need to factor in how much direct current you need. It is important to know how much power will be consumed by household appliances. Break down how much power consumption each one consumes.

Next, add everything together to get to a final wattage figure. The idea is to have continuous output power systems running uninterrupted. The next step is to find out the VA ampere rating.

VA is the amperes of current derived from the inverter and supplied to the appliances. Inverters operating at 100% efficiency would be ideal. This, however, is not usually the case.

For most inverters, the maximum power is 60% to 80%. We refer to the efficiency of an inverter as the power factor. It is the ratio of power needed by appliances supplied by the inverter. The range of the power factor for almost all inverters ranges from 0.6 to 0.8!

Step 2. Work Out What Type Of Battery Your Inverter Needs.

Inverter battery chargers and batteries are the backbone of your inverter. The entire system is dependent on different types of batteries. Battery type and quality, and the size of your inverter battery will vary.

Battery voltage and battery size is important when it comes to getting adequate power. You will need to figure out how much power output your inverter will provide to your electric devices.

How many hours will the inverter run all your electrical equipment for? What size of inverter and battery will give you the right amount of running time? Battery capacity matters. It is one of the essential factors when deciding how many inverter backup hours you will need. We measure inverter backup in AH, or Ampere Hours.

Find Out More About Inverters, Battery BackUp Systems, and Batteries Today!

Contact us today to find out how you can keep your appliances running during load shedding. Find a wide range of backup power options and different types of inverters for all applications. Inverter size depends on what your requirements are. PHD Powerhouse is powering South African homes and businesses, big and small.

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What is the Best Battery for Solar Storage?

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How to Choose the Best Battery for Solar Storage

Are you thinking of going off the grid and using solar installations? The big question is where to start your search for the right battery. Comparing quotes and different battery technology can be confusing, to say the least.

We ensure that all our solar batteries meet the highest standard of safety requirements.

10 Questions to Ask When Choosing Your New Solar Battery

How can you determine which technical specs and what characteristics to look for? The home energy storage industry is a relatively new one. Not everyone you ask will have the right information you need. Solar batteries have no standardisation apart from safety features. That’s why it is important to do your research when investing in solar storage solutions.

  1. What battery capacity and battery life will my battery need to have to power my solar panels?
  2. Do I place my solar battery in full sunlight and will it work if it’s in the shade for some of the day?
  3. Will extreme temperatures affect the efficacy of my battery and does it come with a warranty from the battery manufacturer?
  4. Which type of battery can I use and are there different solar battery types to consider? You can ask about lithium batteries, deep cycle batteries, gel batteries, an acid battery, and even a flooded lead-acid battery.
  5. Will I need a battery backup system in case my solar battery isn’t charged?
  6. Will I be independent from the grid if we have a power outage?
  7. Are solar panel systems easy to install and service?
  8. Will my solar system require regular maintenance?
  9. Will I have solar power storage that delivers sufficient usable capacity for my needs?
  10. Is there enough room on my roof for more than one panel?

We can answer all these questions and more at PHD Powerhouse. Simply call or drop us a message to find out how you can install solar. We will advise you on which battery is best for your unique needs by looking at costs, efficiency, space requirements, application, and more.

What Benefits Should I Keep a Look Out for In a Solar Battery?

Solar power calls for solar storage batteries that differ from one to the next. For solar energy storage, you need to find batteries offering an extended period of power. Solar battery storage is dependent on the battery size. It also depends largely on the technical complexity.

These off grid systems present a variety of solutions and benefits. Are you looking for an emergency backup power solution, or is it being independent from a utility company that you are keen on? It can also cut your electricity bill and warm your water off-grid when cold temperatures hit.

South Africa has enough sunshine for continuous power. Solar power is an excellent form of renewable energy and an affordable option.

Shop a Wide Variety of Solar Applications at PHD Powerhouse Today!

We are here to answer any questions you might have about going solar. Are you thinking of going off of electric grid power anytime soon? Our range of off-grid solar batteries will take care of your solar system or help reduce your power consumption costs. Let us find the right solar panel battery for homes and businesses.

Sources: energysage;

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Can Solar Power Help Solve the South African Energy Crisis?

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South Africa is struggling under power crises such as load shedding, overloaded power utilities, and wet coal. Could solar power be the answer?

Load shedding has become part and parcel of South Africa’s way of life. What is the solution to the power utility crisis? More and more South Africans are finding alternative ways of powering their world with alternate access to electricity. Renewable sources such as solar could be one solution to the energy challenge.

How is South Africa addressing the energy crisis in the country?

Eskom conducts load shedding by implementing a series of planned power outages. Unreliable electricity is the order of the day! The power utility has implemented load shedding to help maintain the state infrastructure and power stations.

Eskom is struggling with increased electricity demand, and independent power producers have not officially been introduced into the system as a solution yet. Many South Africans are finding alternative energy sources because of the current energy shortage.

Some of these include solar panels. Solar energy is a cleaner energy source that can help you pay fewer electricity tariffs. It is time to find solutions, as electricity users are struggling through rolling blackouts.

Is solar an affordable supply of energy?

South Africa enjoys many sunny days throughout the year. As energy demand increases on the country’s main power utility, solar energy could be a very viable and attainable solution. Renewable energy is clean and affordable; the perfect answer to the energy woes in Southern Africa.

Most areas in Southern Africa are getting seven hours of sunlight daily. Personal solar photovoltaic systems could be the answer. The average household in South Africa consumes 10kWh energy daily.

A single, average solar panel exposed to seven hours of sunlight can give your household 2KwH of power. With a few panels on the roof, any household in Sub-Saharan Africa’s warm climate can do away with coal-fired power plants.

Renewable Energy Projects Face Energy Storage Difficulties

The storage of energy is a difficulty. This is the situation with many personal power systems throughout South Africa. Stage 4 load shedding means users are out of power for 48 hours across 8 days!

You would need to use 16 deep cycle batteries to store 48 hours of energy. We will need two of these batteries to survive four hour periods of load-shedding.

Solar is slowly moving consumers away from total dependency on coal. It is not up to individuals alone to start using solar. Eskom needs to introduce larger solar power systems to service South Africa as a whole.

Other energy initiatives also need to be introduced. Most South Africans are not able to move away entirely from the grid. As load shedding continues, it will affect public institutions, private individuals, businesses, and our economic growth.

Are you ready to go off the grid and install solar? We are here to answer your questions!

Contact our offices in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban. Alternatively, fill out our easy form and tell us what you need. We offer a range of solar products. Perhaps this is the future of South Africa!

Source: renewableenergyworld.com