All your questions about solar power answered

Consumers are ready to go for solar power, but everybody has questions to be answered first.

The last thing they want to do now is make the wrong choice because switching to solar power is too expensive to get wrong.

It is important for consumers to make informed decisions about solar installation and maintenance. Versofy SOLAR received over 5 000 enquiries since January and compiled a list of most frequently asked questions to ensure that consumers have enough information before they choose.

The first thing consumers want to know is whether one brand of solar panel is as efficient as another.

“The efficiency of solar panels depends on the amount of sunlight they receive and their technical specifications, as some panels are more technologically advanced than others,” says Ross Mains-Sheard, director at Versofy SOLAR.

It takes from one to three days to install a household solar system.

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Where can panels be installed?

Consumers also want to know if solar panels can be installed on a flat roof.

Mains-Sheard says while there are some aspects to consider, solar panels will perform efficiently on a flat roof, provided that they are mounted securely and installed at the optimum angle. The optimum angle for a solar panel’s performance in Johannesburg and Cape Town would depend on latitude and other local factors.

The average home will use between 6 and 12 panels, but the exact number depends on the area of your home, inverter capabilities and electricity needs. Choose an experienced supplier who can correctly assess your property and energy demands and offer flexible package options suited to your home and your budget.

With such adverse weather suddenly becoming more of a regular feature in South Africa, consumers are also worried if solar panels will be able to withstand extreme conditions. According to Mains-Sheard, most panels are designed to withstand high winds, heavy rain and hail.

“Solar panels may actually operate more efficiently at lower temperatures than at very high temperatures, but extreme cold can reduce their efficiency.”

He says it is also important to ensure that the panels are installed correctly to prevent damage and to make sure that the panels are covered by your insurance.

The lifespan of solar panels should be 20 to 30 years. They may require cleaning once or twice a year with water and a soft bristle brush, and you will have to check occasionally that they are not obstructed by trees or debris.

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What about warranties?

Mains-Sheard says all of Versofy SOLAR’s equipment is backed by robust warranties regarding performance for the term of your agreement. He says consumers must check that their suppliers offer this kind of warranty.

Few consumers can afford to pay cash for installing solar power and many companies now offer various payment options.

Versofy SOLAR, for example, offers a rental product called Solar as a Service that includes installation, monitoring and support, but gives users all the benefits of solar, at a lower monthly cost and without the associated costs of ownership.

Rent to Own is another option, similar to a cell phone contract where you benefit from the full savings of owning the system after the contract is up. If you sell your home, you should be able to transfer your rental agreement into the new owner’s name, subject to the new owner agreeing to the original terms and conditions.

If you can pay cash and buy the system outright, you immediately start to get a return on investment, but this requires substantial upfront capital.

“There is still a long way to go to just getting people switched to solar and less reliant on the grid,” says Mains-Sheard.

“South Africans are very interested but understandably hesitant.”