Why you need to install a solar and battery system – even if Eskom fixes load-shedding
Solar and battery systems are necessary in South Africa to avoid the massive disruptions caused by load-shedding.
However, they also offer many other benefits to households according to Standard Bank’s home efficiency platform, LookSee.co.za.
This makes installing a solar and battery system an incredibly smart investment that will pay for itself several times over – even if Eskom fixes the national power grid.
We outline the benefits of investing in a solar and battery system, below.
Reduced power bill
Beyond the obvious advantage of having electricity during load-shedding, a solar and battery system offers savings on your monthly electricity bill.
Electricity prices have skyrocketed in South Africa over the past few years, with the most recent tariff hikes in April 2023 amounting to a huge 18.65%.
LookSee’s Executive Head, Marc du Plessis explains: “With a solar and battery system, you can reduce your reliance on Eskom’s grid and avoid these massive increases in the years ahead.”
“As an example, a 5kW solar system could save you around R1 690 on your monthly electricity bill or R20,280 a year at the current average electricity tariff. If electricity prices are increased by just 15% next year, your annual savings increase to about R23,000.”
Increased property value
A solar power system will also add significant value to your home.
Home buyers know that solar power systems save them money every month and will be willing to pay more for a house that affords them this luxury.
Therefore, you shouldn’t look at a power system as an expense – rather, it is a long-term investment into the value of your home.
Blackouts
If load-shedding becomes a thing of the past, this does not necessarily mean the end of power outages in South Africa.
Power infrastructure vandalism, harsh weather, and human error can all lead to extended blackouts in certain areas.
With a solar and battery system, you won’t need to worry about this and can go about your day knowing that your power supply is stable and reliable.
Solar affordability
For those that are considering a solar installation, the time could not be better.
Du Plessis explains: “The prices of solar panels and batteries has dropped considerably since the beginning of the year with some components costing as much as 20% to 30% less.”
“Households can also claim a 25% tax rebate of the cost of qualifying solar panels up to a maximum of R15,000 through National Treasury’s Home Solar Tax incentive if they are brought into use before 29 February 2024.”
Choose LookSee Solar Loans
LookSee’s new Solar Loan offering, launched in partnership with the Government Energy Bounce Back Loan Scheme, offers an affordable way to install a solar and battery system in your home.
LookSee is a part of the Standard Bank Group and offers solar loans at vastly lower interest rates – personalised up to a maximum of Prime +2.5% on loans ranging from R3,000 to R300,000.
This is substantially lower than the average Prime +7%. Additionally, the loans can be paid off with a flexible plan of between 12 months and five years.
Should you choose to pay your loan off early, you will also enjoy reduced interest payments – so click here to apply for a solar loan from LookSee.
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