fbpx
Our Blog

Do You Want to Take Your Home off the Grid?

By January 14, 2021January 27th, 2021No Comments

If there is one thing that is on the mind of every South African right now, it is whether it’s a good idea to invest in solar power. With the repercussions of the global pandemic and the recent news that we might be facing stage 8 load shedding this year, there is a lot of uncertainty around our power supply for 2021 and beyond.

Solar power is amazing. While the initial costs can be high, the positives far outweigh any negatives that might exist. But, before you make your final decision to switch, here are some considerations to ponder.

Solar Is a Long-Term Investment

It’s true, solar is much more affordable than a few years back and an entry-level system could be paid back in a matter of 5 years. That said, back up battery systems are still a little pricey and payback periods might be extended but these days, their warranty periods (usually 10 years) tend to be longer than their payback periods.

Your Roof Space Might Not Be Sufficient

A big determining factor in whether your home will be able to go completely off the grid is unshaded roof space. Unfortunately, many houses simply don’t have enough space to install sufficient solar panels.

You’ll Need to Plan Ahead for Spikes in Usage

Even with a solar system that meets your everyday needs, there will be times when you exceed these limits like when guests visit for a few days. If you don’t want to be stuck without power, it’s vital to plan accordingly.

You Might Need to Upgrade Your Solar Solution in Future

Your solar installation will be based on your current energy needs. Any changes in lifestyle — a new baby or working from home — might change your energy consumption which will require an upgrade on your solar system.

There Might Be Ongoing Costs

As the owner of your solar system, you’ll bear the financial responsibility of component replacements and routine maintenance.

Solar power is an excellent alternative to conventional electricity and you can’t go wrong when switching to a solar solution. For more information or a free quote, get in touch with Nupower today!