WELCOME TO OUR SOLAR FAQ
Here Is The Most Frequently Asked Questions.
We know that you may have a lot of questions about solar energy. That’s why we’ve created this FAQ page to answer some of the most common questions that we get asked.
Whether you’re just starting to research solar energy or you’re ready to make the switch, we hope this page will help you find the answers you need.
If you have any other questions that aren’t answered here, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help.
There are two main types of solar panels: crystalline silicon solar panels and thin-film solar panels. Crystalline silicon solar panels are the most common type of solar panel. They are made from silicon crystals, which are arranged in a grid pattern. Thin-film solar panels are made from a variety of materials, including silicon, cadmium telluride, and copper indium gallium selenide. They are thinner and lighter than crystalline silicon solar panels, but they are also less efficient.
The amount of energy that solar panels can generate depends on a number of factors, including the size of the solar panels, the amount of sunlight they receive, and their efficiency. In South Africa, solar panels can typically generate between 200 and 300 watts of electricity per square meter.
Solar panels can last for 25 years or more. However, their efficiency will gradually decline over time.
The South African government offers a number of incentives for solar energy, including:
* A 15% tax rebate on the cost of solar panels and solar water heaters
* A feed-in tariff, which is a guaranteed price for the electricity that solar panels generate
* A rebate on the cost of solar batteries
The cost of a solar power system in South Africa depends on a number of factors, including the size of the system, the type of solar panels and inverter used, and the cost of installation. However, a typical 5kW solar system can cost anywhere from R70,000 to R140,000.
There are many benefits to solar power, including:
- Reduced electricity bills: Solar power can help you to reduce your electricity bills by generating your own electricity from the sun.
- Environmental benefits: Solar power is a clean and renewable energy source, which means that it does not produce any emissions.
- Increased property value: Studies have shown that installing a solar power system can increase the value of your property.
- Independence from the grid: With a solar power system, you can generate your own electricity and be less reliant on the grid.
Load shedding is a process of intentionally reducing the electricity supply to certain areas in order to prevent a complete blackout. Load shedding is often used in South Africa due to the power shortage.
There are a number of ways to protect your home from load shedding, including:
- Installing a solar power system: A solar power system can allow you to generate your own electricity and be less reliant on the grid.
- Installing a power backup system: A power backup system can provide you with electricity during a power outage.
- Using energy-efficient appliances: Energy-efficient appliances will consume less electricity, which can help you to save money on your energy bills.
Solar energy is harnessed through a variety of technologies that convert sunlight into electricity or heat. The most common solar technology is photovoltaics, which uses solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity. Solar panels are made up of semiconductor cells that absorb sunlight and release electrons, which creates a flow of electricity.
Solar energy is the radiant light and heat from the Sun that is harnessed using a range of ever-evolving technologies such as solar heating, photovoltaics, solar thermal energy, solar architecture, molten salt power plants and artificial photosynthesis. It is an essential source of renewable energy, and its technologies are broadly characterised as either passive solar or active solar depending on how they capture and distribute solar energy or convert it into solar power. Active solar techniques include the use of photovoltaic systems, concentrated solar power, and solar water heating to harness the energy. Passive solar techniques include orienting a building to the Sun, selecting materials with favorable thermal mass or light dispersing properties, and designing spaces that naturally circulate air.
The right solar inverter for your needs will depend on the size of your solar power system and the type of solar panels that you are using. You should also consider the features that are important to you, such as efficiency, warranty, and noise level.
There are two main types of solar batteries: lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries.
- Lead-acid batteries: Lead-acid batteries are the most common type of solar battery. Lead-acid batteries are relatively inexpensive, but they have a shorter lifespan than lithium-ion batteries.
- Lithium-ion batteries: Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive than lead-acid batteries, but they have a longer lifespan and a higher energy density.
Solar batteries should be installed by a qualified solar installer. Solar installers have the experience and expertise to ensure that your battery is installed safely and correctly.
To maintain your solar battery, you should inspect it regularly for any signs of damage. You should also keep the battery charged and avoid letting it completely discharge.