How going off-grid can help you avoid upcoming tariff hikes:
With electricity prices scheduled to skyrocket this year, a number of homeowners are in search of more financially and even environmentally sustainable solutions.
According to energy experts such as Ted Blom, South Africa’s national power utility, Eskom is planning to increase its tariffs by as much as 30% by the end of the year in an effort to recover some of its recent financial losses. In the meantime, some municipalities have – through a process that concluded on Friday – even applied for tariff increases that would exceed the 6.84% increase suggested by Nersa earlier this year.
Guy Hickinbotham – the manager of Bundu Power Generators and Solar, a KwaZulu-Natal based business that supplies equipment to locals looking to move off the grid – has noted that more people seem to be in search of independent power solutions in some way or another. This trend, according to Hickinbotham, is largely a result of the rising cost of electricity, as well as the unstable nature of South Africa’s electricity infrastructure.*
While some may opt to go completely off-grid, a partial migration is often a more practical solution for those who are conscious of our limited national resources, but who may not have the financial means to invest in all the equipment needed to set them up for off-grid living.
So, what are some practical and accessible options for South Africans who want to reduce their reliance on pricy power utilities such as Eskom and lower their impact on the environment?
1. Renewable energy
South Africa is the world’s third-best location for generating solar power**, making it a great option for our household power needs.
In the past the cost of installing alternative energy systems has been a major factor steering people away from even considering it an option. However, thanks to ongoing research and improved innovations, these systems are becoming more affordable and accessible. There have also been solar conversion rebate programmes available through the national Department of Energy as well as certain municipalities to incentivise homeowners.
Mark Willoughby, the Managing Director of The One Energy Group, highlights that there are local solar companies that offer financing options so South Africans can get the systems they want without the hefty upfront payment. “When it comes to your electricity supply and costs, you have the absolute power to take control and do something constructive about it by becoming more energy efficient and grid independent. It’s easier and far more affordable than most people realise, and any investment into making your property more energy efficient will save you money and increase the value of your property at the same time,” Willoughby explains***.
2. Switching-out appliances
According to Craig Hutchison, CEO of Engel & Völkers Southern Africa, the financially- and environmentally-savvy can convert a number of appliances in their homes that can make a big difference. Hutchison suggests that the most essential changes include replacing incandescent globes with compact fluorescent, low watt fluorescent or LED lights****.
Other swaps to consider include opting for solar geysers, LCD TVs and laptops, solar fridges and freezers, evaporative air conditioners, electric blankets (instead of room heaters), and gas stoves.
3. Green housing
With the increasing interest in off-grid alternatives, property developers have an opportunity to educate South Africans about their eco-friendly building options. For those looking to purchase property in a new development, there is a growing list of green building options to pay attention to.
Recently urban property developers, Blok, launched a new development in Cape Town’s Bantry Bay suburb, TENONQ, which is fitted with green water heating, low-energy lighting and energy-efficient window glazing. Blok’s apartments also come furnished with energy-efficient appliances and lighting. “These features form the fundamentals of a good building and home, and we’re always working to ensure we create more sustainable buildings and living habits, said Blok Managing Director, Jacques van Embden.
While some of these options might come with a hefty price tag, implementing some off-grid options can go a long way in alleviating the pressure on South Africa’s strained resources and save you a lot of money in the long run.
References:
*https://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/locals-go-off-the-grid-20170809
**https://www.solarconnect.co.za/blog/5-things-to-know-about-off-grid-power-systems
***https://www.pressportal.co.za/energy-and-environment/story/13089/take-back-your-power-step-by-step-on-how-to-get-off-the-grid.html
****https://www.property24.com/articles/converting-to-solar-power-and-getting-off-the-grid/22867
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