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Factors to consider
Insist that the quote be itemised to enable comparison with other quotes. Ensure that if VAT is charged, it is clear whether the value of individual items on the quote are including or excluding VAT. Insist on the specification sheets of the quoted batteries, panels and inverters.
Batteries
Battery Depth of discharge
Depth of discharge (DoD) is the measure of how much of a battery’s rated capacity (measured in kWh) can be used.
Battery charging cycles
Battery charging cycles is a measure of a battery’s lifespan. This is the number of charge and discharge cycles the manufacturer has achieved when charging the battery.
Therefore: When comparing batteries consider the number of cycles they can achieve to determine which will last longer than the next.
Manufacturer
There are many manufacturers of batteries but not all produce the same quality battery. Here are some factors that can be considered to help determine which one to choose:
- Warranties offered by the manufacturer and their ability to honour them
- How long the manufacturer has been in the industry
- Comments on community forums. www.powerforum.co.za
Please note: Not all batteries are manufactured equally
Inverter Size
Inverters come in many sizes and are most commonly rated in kilo-watts (kW). The size of the inverter needs to be considered for both the solar production as well as the load it should be able to support.
Monitoring
Additional features of an inverter are definite factors that affect their price. One important element to consider is the ability to monitor the inverters production and manage t’s setting remotely.
Approved list
Some municipalities (with others following suite) have predefined which inverters can and cannot be connected to their grid. If you decide on a grid tied solution make sure to enquire whether or not the inverter quoted is approved by your municipality. Make sure the inverter is on the NRS 97 Approved list.
Payment Options
If your supplier offers payment options, be sure to fully understand the terms and conditions of these options and understand all costs. These options can include (but aren’t limited to):
Evergreen/rental/subscription: Here the installer retains ownership of the installed system and rent it to you over a fixed period of time at a predefined annual escalation.
Rent with the option to own: Ability to own the system at the end of the rental period at a nominal buyout fee.
Things to consider:
- Ownership of the system during and after the financing option
- Period of the financing option
- The annual escalation of the monthly rental amounts
- Buy out value at the end of the financed period
- Whether the future proceeds from the system like selling power back or any subsidy incentive imposed by local authority belongs to the customer.
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