In the face of escalating electricity prices and an unstable power supply from the national energy utility, making the switch to solar power has never been more appealing for South Africans.  Here are ten practical tips from Ray Fernandez at Probenergy to guide your transition to solar energy:

1. OPTIMISE YOUR ELECTRICITY USAGE: Before you switch, understand your current electricity usage. This will help you determine the right size of the solar system you need.
2. DETERMINE YOUR GOALS: Are you looking to save money, reduce your carbon footprint, cover your energy needs during loadshedding or outages, or achieve complete energy independence? Your goals will influence the kind of solar solution you need.
3. MEASURE YOUR POWER CONSUMPTION: Analyse your electricity bills for the past year to gauge your energy needs. This will help your installer determine the capacity of the solar system you need. At Probenergy, we do an energy audit for clients, measuring consumption over a week.
4. CONSIDER YOUR BUDGET AND FINANCING OPTIONS: Solar installations can be costly upfront but save you money in the long run. Probenergy offers financing solutions like Rent 2 Own/Lease. Remember also that there are tax incentives in place for systems installed before 28 February 2025.
5. CHOOSE THE RIGHT PANELS, BATTERIES AND INVERTER: You’ll need to work with your installer to ensure you receive reputable brands with good warranties.
6. UNDERSTAND THE LOCATION AND INCLINATION OF YOUR ROOF: These factors significantly impact how much sunlight your solar panels can harness.
7. CHECK YOUR INSURANCE POLICIES: While most insurers cover solar panels, there might be exceptions. For instance, some insurers may not cover homes with solar systems or impose additional conditions. It’s essential to read your policy carefully or consult with your insurance agent.
8. STAY UPDATED ON POLICY CHANGES: Keep an eye on the South African government’s renewable energy policies as they could affect your solar installation.
9. WORK WITH REPUTABLE SOLAR PROVIDERS: Choose a provider like Probenergy, known for quality products, excellent service, and comprehensive solutions.

With these tips, you’re well on your way to making an informed decision about going solar.

For more information about switching to renewable energy and how it can save costs for your business, visit https://energy.probegroup.co.za/ or call +27  86 111 3507.