The number one question we get about solar power systems is how long they will take to pay themselves off, essentially. A solar power system is a long-term investment. Most customers report the initial investment is recouped within 5 to 8 years, which is when the major cost savings begin.
When assessing the costs of a solar power system in South Africa, one must also take into account the cost of downtime caused by load shedding or power cuts. How many hours of productivity are lost each month because of load shedding? How much damage do power surges cause your equipment? A PV system that keeps the lights on when load shedding strikes will save you more money than just electricity savings.
So let’s get down to the nitty gritty of it all. How much does a solar power system actually cost? While costs vary between installers, see the average costs below for a standard grid-tied system.
6 kW system = R105 000
20 kW system = R265 000
50 kW system = R550 000
You can enjoy annual cost savings of between R25 000 and R200 000 on your electricity bill, with your initial investment being paid off within a couple of years.
An off-grid system requires much larger batteries and inverters so is a much more expensive option. Costs for an off-grid solar power system start from just over R300 000 which is why these systems are only suitable for remote areas where a grid-tied system is not an option. It will take you much longer to get a return on the investment with an off-grid system.
Are you ready to invest in solar power for your business or home? Fill in our enquiry form and our reputable installers will be in contact with you for a free assessment.