Solar Solutions

Solar Only Solutions

Solar Only Explained

A solar only solution includes a solar panel array with an inverter. This is ideal for a property where most of the electricity usage is consumed during the day. Solar panels only provide electricity during hours they are exposed to the sun (optimal times are 9 to 3pm daily) and this energy can only be used at the time that it is generated.

As using the power generated by the panels means you are not using electricity from the electrical grid during those times, this is a great way to reduce your electricity bill and become energy efficient.

Solar only solutions are usually grid-tied to ensure that there is still power when the panels are not producing electricity

A grid-tied system is merely a solar system connected to the electrical grid (Eskom) and as a result, it uses electricity from both the solar panel system as well as the electrical grid.

A standard grid-tied solar solution does not work when there is no sunlight, when the grid is down or during periods of load shedding. A standard solar inverter is designed to automatically switch off during a power outage. This is due to International Safety Standards – It serves as protection for maintenance personnel who might not be aware that there is live electricity when the grid is supposed to be off.

In short, a Solar Only Solution is a great way to save on your electricity bill, provided that the energy generated is used during daylight hours. As this system is unable to store the generated energy, it is not an option when managing load shedding or power outages, Unless the power derived from the panels can be stored in an energy storage system (battery back-up).

The vital element to becoming substantially grid-independent for residential home owners is battery storage. Most of the electricity consumption is during the early morning and evening and not while the panels are producing most of the electricity. Similarly for small businesses – although most of the electricity consumption is during the day (while the panels may produce most of the electricity), without battery storage a solar only system will not provide any relief in the event of load shedding or an unexpected power outage. A Solar Only Solution will not be of any benefit during times of load shedding or in the event of an unexpected power outage.

If power security is the pressing issue, you should perhaps invest in a battery back-up solution (adding solar panels later on) or opt for a Hybrid Solution which will enable you to save on your electricity bill and allow you to operate normally during load shedding or during unexpected power cuts.