Adding value to your home: Solar Energy and Boreholes unlocking the power of Sustainability

Article written by: Madeleine Marais

If we could fast-forward to sometime in the future, solar energy would, without question, play a huge role in how we power our homes and more, and its popularity and usage around the world is increasing with every passing day. In fact, the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the national trade association for the solar and solar storage industries, asserts that solar energy “isn’t just the future— it’s our present.”- Forbes

Solar energy and boreholes are two excellent ways to add value to your home in South Africa. Both these methods have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their potential to save on utility costs and their environmental benefits, and might attract potential buyers and demand a higher sale price.

Solar power is clean, renewable, and can drastically reduce your reliance on the national grid. With South Africa’s high levels of sunshine, harnessing the power of the sun is an excellent way to save on costs while reducing

your carbon footprint. Installing solar systems on your property can help attract potential buyers, especially those who are environmentally conscious. Buyers will be interested in the potential cost savings of electricity bills that come with solar power as well as the added value of the assurance and convenience of not being left in the dark. A home with solar panels already installed can be a huge selling point. Homes with solar could on average sell for up to 4% more, depending on price range, location and type of system installed.

Aside from reducing your electricity bill, solar energy can also add value to your home in the long run. With electricity prices in South Africa constantly rising, the cost savings associated with solar power will only become more significant over time. Buyers will be interested in the long-term benefits of owning a home with solar systems, and this can drive up the perceived value of your property.

Pros of Solar Energy:

• Renewable Energy Source • Reduces Electric Bill • Energy Independence - Never left in the dark with load-shedding • Solar Panels Increase Home Values • Long-Term Savings • Low-Maintenance Costs

Cons of Solar Energy:

• High upfront investment cost of Solar Panels and batteries • Sunlight Dependent • Adverse effects on the environment

An additional value add could be boreholes; it could help reduce water bills and ensure a constant supply of water even during times of drought. With water scarcity being a significant concern in South Africa, boreholes have become increasingly

popular. By drilling a borehole on your property, you can tap into an underground water source, reducing your reliance on municipal water. This can be an attractive feature for buyers, particularly those who are looking for a more self-sufficient and comfortable lifestyle.

Boreholes can also add value to your property in other ways. For instance, a property with a borehole is likely to have a more abundant and healthier garden, which can be a huge selling point. Additionally, borehole water is often cleaner and purer than municipal water, making it ideal for drinking and cooking. A home with a borehole can, therefore, appeal to buyers who value a cost effective, healthy and sustainable lifestyle.

However, it is essential to note that installing solar systems and boreholes can be a significant investment. While the potential cost savings and added value can be attractive, homeowners should carefully consider the upfront costs before deciding to invest in these technologies.

An alternative to solar and boreholes could be to install an inverter with batteries that can be charged off Eskom as well as a Jojo tank to catch all the rain water. These options have a lower upfront cost and work just as well. Another amazing option is the installation of a borehole on layby. This can allow you to pay off your investment and once paid off the installation will commence. You can contact us for this option.

Is going green worth the cost?

In my opinion, yes. But whether it’s right for you depends on many variables you’ll need to investigate for yourself.

Bottom line is the pros outweigh the cons. It may take several years but eventually it will result in major cost saving and added value to your property.

In conclusion, incorporating solar and borehole systems into your property can add significant value when selling in South Africa. These resources can help reduce utility costs, increase self-sufficiency, and make your property more attractive to potential buyers. However, it is essential

to carefully consider the upfront costs and the suitability of these systems before deciding to invest. By doing so, homeowners can ensure that they are making a wise investment that will benefit them and potential buyers in the long run.

The question we often ask ourselves is “can we afford to?”, but the better question should be “can we afford not to”. When we first drilled for water, it was a massive cost for us before building our dream home, but my husband’s answer to me was as simple as “ we are just not going away on holiday for the next few months…” and you know what, drilling for water really did add value to my house.