Solar Energy In South Africa

Risks, Rewards, & The Right Approach

Written by: Evert Janse van Rensburg Mzansi Power Representative

In today’s world, where power outages and load shedding have become all too common, the allure of alternative energy solutions is undeniable. South Africans, in particular, are feeling the pinch. With the electricity grid faltering due to years of neglect, and the recent failure of government-led solar projects that were touted as the nation’s saving grace, the situation is dire.

Enter solar power – a beacon of hope in these trying times. But as with all things, where there’s demand, there’s supply, and not always from the right sources. The rise in demand for solar solutions has led to a surge in amateur installers looking to make a quick buck. And this, unfortunately, has led to safety concerns.

A recent incident in Pretoria serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved. A home equipped with a solar system, installed by an inexperienced individual, caught fire. The cause? A poorly installed system. The homeowner, preferring to stay anonymous, shared his harrowing experience, emphasizing the importance of due diligence when choosing an installer.

Jonathan, another Pretoria resident, shared his perspective: “With the constant power outages, we knew we had to make a plan. We can’t rely on Eskom anymore. But it’s essential to ensure that the products are top-notch and the installer knows their stuff. The safety of my family comes first.”

This sentiment is echoed by many, and it’s where Mzansi Power, a company I’m proud to be a part of, shines. With a team that boasts over 15 years of experience in the electrical field, we take pride in being a beacon of trust in the industry. We offer not only solar power solutions but also high-quality diesel generators for those seeking more immediate on-demand energy solutions.Recognizing that the transition to solar power is a significant step, we aim to make it as seamless as possible. To this end, we have devised flexible payment options. For instance, our rent-to-own option allows customers to start using a solar system while paying for it over time. For larger establishments like estates and complexes, we have a unique arrangement called Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). With this option, we take care of the installation and maintenance, and the establishment simply pays for the power generated by the system. This approach helps to alleviate the burden of upfront costs and makes the benefits of solar power more accessible.

Why is choosing a reputable company like Mzansi Power so critical?

Because more than 80% of fire accidents in solar projects stem from faults in the direct current (DC) side - an electrical term referring to the flow of electric charge in one direction. These faults, especially those related to a phenomenon called “DC arc”, are becoming increasingly common with the rise of amateur installers.

Our skilled team ensures that all installations meet the highest safety standards, enabling customers to harness solar power without safety worries. Jonathan, one of our many satisfied customers, opted for a robust 5kW Growatt inverter, a 5kWh lithium battery, and 11 solar panels that adequately cater to his family’s needs during load shedding.

“The system’s performance has been stellar, and the quality of the installation is top-notch,”

Jonathan noted. His wife added, “The technician was very insightful. He took the time to show me exactly how the system works. This gave us confidence that we made the right choice.”

In conclusion, while solar power is a promising solution to our energy problems, it’s crucial to choose your installer wisely. With Mzansi Power, you’re not just getting a solar system; you’re investing in peace of mind. And with our wide range of products and services, we offer comprehensive solutions for all your energy needs.