Exploring alternative energy solutions for your home

Load-shedding struck South Africa for the first time in 2007. After 16 years, there seems to be universal acceptance that load-shedding is here to stay. It is no surprise that finding alternative energy solutions has become a much higher priority for homeowners across the country.

“There are many factors to consider when thinking about what alternative power sources to install in your home. These include your budget and energy needs and whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a longer-term solution that could add value to your property,” said regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, Adrian Goslett.

To help homeowners decide what will work best for them, RE/MAX of Southern Africa covers three of the common alternative energy solutions:

• Generators
As much as we want to avoid fossil fuels, a petrol- or diesel-powered generator can be the least expensive (if you don’t factor in the ongoing fuel costs) and quickest solution. Unless permanently fixed to the property, a generator will not affect the resale value of the home, as this will usually go with the seller to their next home. There will be both noise and poisonous emissions with this option, which means that the generator will need to be kept outside and in a well-ventilated area. Keep in mind that both the noise and the smell could upset your neighbours – so be considerate when you set this up.

• Gas stoves and solar geysers
For those with less cash to spare, swapping out one or two fixtures at a time can ease your reliance on the main electrical grid. Start by exchanging an electric cooker for a gas cooker so that you can still cook during load-shedding. Installing a solar geyser is another great solution to slowly work your way off the grid. For both options, be sure to use a licensed installer as you will be required to produce compliance certificates in this regard should you later decide to sell.

• Installing solar panels
Solar installations can vary greatly depending on how robust of a system you want to install. A full solar electricity system will usually include photovoltaic panels on your roof, an inverter with batteries that will be connected to the distribution board, and a power meter in your home. While the capital outlay for installing solar is substantial, it’s becoming more achievable as the government and home loan institutions come to the party by offering kickbacks and financing options. This kind of installation can greatly increase the resale value of a property.

In addition to the problem of load-shedding, South Africans are increasingly aware of their carbon footprints and the need to use more eco-friendly and renewable energy sources.

“Apart from installing back-up or alternative power solutions, we should also practise good habits of using electricity sparingly and efficiently,” added Adrian.

As with all decisions about what is probably your biggest investment, he recommended that homeowners think carefully about the decisions they take to mitigate load-shedding.