That is why liquefied petroleum (LP) gas is becoming popular amongst South Africans.
The reason that so many South Africans are using this alternative energy source is because gas-powered appliances are becoming more cost-effective and the supply of LP gas is reliable.
“The national power grid is expected to be constrained this winter, which means power outages when demand exceeds supply,” says Eskom’s acting spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe.
”Like other alternative and renewable energy sources, LP gas presents an opportunity to reduce reliance – and lower demand – on the grid.
”Using a mix of energy sources to power appliances – allowing people to cook and keep warm in the absence of electricity – is a worldwide trend that is gaining an ever stronger foothold in South African households.
“Over nine million electric hot plates and stoves are in use in households in South Africa, which cause major strain on the national grid when all are switched on between 5pm to 9pm on weekdays, the period of peak demand for electricity.
”Every household in South Africa can help to reduce the demand for electricity by using alternative fuel sources, in addition to energy efficient electric cooking appliances and electricity-smart cooking methods”.
According to Gary Lindhorst, merchandise manager for appliances at Makro, the market for gas-powered appliances and technologies is growing fast.
”Sales of gas heaters at Makro have grown steadily in recent seasons and a huge spike is anticipated in sales this winter, due to the possibility of power outages and a lower gas price, as a result of the recent fuel price decreases,” he said.
”Gas heaters make up more than a third of all heater sales in value; one in five heaters sold in our business is gas.
”Gas cooking appliances have shown a growth of 30 per cent; they are very useable during power outages, provide instant, constant heat for faster cooking and are cost-effective to run.”
South Africans, when they want to purchase a gas appliance, are advised to look for the Permit Verification Number, which should be displayed on the appliance. If it does not have a permit it has not been verified for sale in South Africa.
A 9kg gas bottle, which costs approximately R181, can last for between three and six months and a 19kg gas bottle, which costs approximately R383, can last for between eight months or even a year, depending on how frequently it’s used.
Visit Eskom for more energy savings tips in the home.
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