Frequently Asked Questions
We all have questions when it comes to changing the way we power our homes. Fortunately, we’ve got all of the answers. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Is my roof suitable for solar panels?
North-facing roofs with little to no shade and enough space to fit a solar panel system are ideal for installing solar. However, in many cases there are workarounds if your home doesn’t have the ideal roof for a solar installation.
Do I need to replace my roof for a solar installation?
Solar energy systems can last 25 to 35 years, so it’s important to ensure your roof is ready for a solar installation. Removing and reinstalling panels can be costly, so if your roof needs maintenance soon, it’s best to complete those repairs before going solar.
Do solar panels produce power when the sun isn’t shining?
Your solar energy system relies on sunlight to generate power. While solar panels produce less energy on cloudy days and none at night, adding batteries to your solar energy system lets you store excess energy produced during the day for use when the sun isn’t shining.
Can I Go Off-Grid with My Solar Panels?
Installing solar panels typically keeps you connected to the grid. This allows your solar energy system to draw power when needed and send excess energy back. To go off-grid, you’ll need a solar energy system with battery storage, which is ideal for properties without grid access.
How long will my solar system last?
In general, solar panels are very durable and capable of withstanding snow, wind and hail. The various components of your solar power system will need to be replaced at different times, but your system should continue to generate electricity for 25 to 35 years.
What happens during the solar installation process?
The first step to going solar is to determine what the best package is for your needs by customising a package with our online calculator. Once you submit your query you will receive a quote. If you decide to accept the quote, a free site inspection will be scheduled for your exact measurements and the feasibility of the system will be verified. Thereafter you will receive a proforma invoice. Once your deposit has been paid, an installation team will contact you to arrange a convenient dare to begin with the installation. The physical installation takes approximately 1-2 days to complete.
How do solar photovoltaic (PV) panels work?
Solar panels absorb the sun’s energy throughout the day and convert it to direct current (DC) electricity. Most homes and businesses run on alternating current (AC) electricity, so DC electricity is passed through an inverter to convert it to usable AC electricity. At that point, you either use the electricity in your house or send it back to the electric grid.
What are the environmental benefits of solar energy?
Solar power, like other renewable energy resources, has many environmental and health benefits. Going solar reduces greenhouse gas emissions which contribute to climate change, and also results in fewer air pollutants like sulphur dioxide and particulate matter which can cause health problems.
Does my landlord need to sign surety for my solar system?
In situations where your landlord would previously have needed to sign surety for the solar system, they now have the choice to co-sign, granting us access to the property as needed. Importantly, they won’t bear financial responsibility for the system, increasing the likelihood of approval for the installation.
Do I need permission from Eskom to install solar panels?
Yes, NERSA regulations require that your solar energy system be registered with your local power provider and comply with government regulations. If you are connected to the Eskom grid, you may need to submit an SSEG application for approval before installation. This ensures your system meets safety and technical standards for legal grid connection.
What is the SSEG application
The SSEG application is a registration process required by municipalities for small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) systems. Since each municipality has its own SSEG policy, the process varies, and approval can take 6 to 12 months as applications go through different technical reviews. Some municipalities have dedicated departments to assist, while others do not, making the process complex.
Is solar worth it in South Africa?
Yes, investing in a solar energy system in South Africa is highly beneficial. With rising electricity costs, frequent power outages, and load-shedding, switching to solar power helps you reduce electricity bills and gain energy independence. By generating your own renewable energy, you lower reliance on Eskom, protect yourself from future tariff increases, and increase your property value.
Finance Questions
We all have questions when it comes to changing the way we power our homes. Fortunately, we’ve got all of the answers. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
What Are the Financial Benefits of a Solar Energy System?
When you install a solar energy system on your property, you can save big on electricity bills while protecting yourself from rising rates in the future. Your savings will depend on local utility rates, but no matter where you are, going solar is a smart and forward-thinking investment.
How do I know how much electricity I am using?
The easiest way to find out how much electricity you use each month (and how much you pay) is to take a look at your municipal utilities bill.
Will I still receive an electricity bill if I install solar panels?
Unless your solar energy system includes battery storage and you are fully off the grid, you’ll still receive a bill from your utility. However, you can dramatically reduce your bill, or even cut the amount down to R0, with a solar panel and battery system that matches your energy use.
Are there any tax benefits to going solar?
Individuals who install rooftop solar panels can take advantage of a solar panel tax credit, claiming up to 25% of the panel costs with a maximum of R15,000. This tax rebate helps reduce your tax liability for the 2023/24 tax year, making solar an even smarter investment!
What are my solar financing options?
We offer three flexible financing options for your solar system: you can choose to pay upfront, finance through a solar home loan, or opt for a solar lease to own or power purchase agreement (PPA). Plus, Alumo offers a convenient month-to-month subscription starting at just R999/month, giving you solar power with maximum flexibility.
How does rent to own solar work?
Rent-to-own solar lets you switch to solar energy with minimal upfront costs, making it an affordable and flexible solution. You can upgrade your system anytime, buy it out whenever you choose, and enjoy free maintenance with insurance included for added peace of mind. This hassle-free option ensures you get all the benefits of solar power without financial strain. Contact Alumo Energy today to get started!
Do you still have to pay Eskom if you have Solar panels?
Yes, even with a solar energy system, you may still need to pay Eskom a connection fee to remain linked to the grid. This charge ensures access to electricity when solar generation is low or during periods of high demand. The fee also contributes to grid maintenance, allowing you to use Eskom as a backup power source when needed.