Education

HTTP_CONNECTION:Keep-Alive HTTP_ACCEPT:text/html,image/png,image/jpeg,image/pjpeg,image/x-xbitmap,image/svg+xml,image/gif;q=0.9,*/*;q=0.1 HTTP_ACCEPT_ENCODING:gzip, identity;q=0.9 HTTP_ACCEPT_LANGUAGE:en, * HTTP_HOST:api.dev.ecatonline.co.za HTTP_MAX_FORWARDS:10 HTTP_REFERER:http://www.magnet.co.za/solutions-solar/education.html HTTP_USER_AGENT:Mozilla/4.5 (compatible; HTTrack 3.0x; Windows 98) HTTP_X_FORWARDED_HOST:www.magnet.co.za HTTP_X_LOOKLIKE_URL:/solutions-solar/news.html HTTP_X_ORIGINAL_URL:/solutions-solar/education.html?page=3 HTTP_X_FORWARDED_FOR:169.0.58.185:54473 HTTP_X_ARR_SSL:3072|256|C=US, O=Let's Encrypt, CN=R3|CN=magnet.co.za HTTP_X_ARR_LOG_ID:c1c1b96d-c24a-46f7-9537-b27fa9c26c1b

[ { "title": "READ | A guide to commercial solar power systems - pt 3", "nid": "528", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022financing solar\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022687214d4-d10f-425b-b47c-0278f2712153\u0022 height=\u0022363\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/shutterstock_71764594crop.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022484\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe\u2019re wrapping up our series on commercial solar power with the third instalment \u2013 f\u003Cstrong\u003Einancing and maintenance\u003C/strong\u003E. If you missed the first two parts to this series, catch up now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--A-guide-to-commercial-solar-power-systems---pt-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 1:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nCommon sizes breaks for commercial-sized solar systems\u003Cbr /\u003E\nCommercial solar designs and layouts\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--A-guide-to-commercial-solar-power-systems---pt-2\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 2:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nExpectations you should have for your solar installer\u003Cbr /\u003E\nInverters in a commercial-sized solar system\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 3:\u003Cbr /\u003E\nFinancing and maintenance of a commercial solar system \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe will discuss three popular means of financing a commercial solar system \u2013 cash, PPA and a loan.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1) Cash/CapEx\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn no particular order, the first way to fund a commercial solar system is technically not finance \u2013 but still a common way to purchase a system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe cash price for a commercial solar system will always be the lowest (leading to the shortest possible payback time for your business), as fees and charges involved with finance or leasing increase the overall cost of a system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EHowever, a potential disadvantage is that larger commercial solar systems represent a significant expenditure, which could potentially be used elsewhere in the business.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2) Power Purchasing Agreement (PPA)\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EPPA\u2019s are a type of solar leasing arrangement.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe core idea is that a third party retailer installs a commercial system on your property (In that the third party legally owns the system, and is obligated to maintain it), and enters an agreement with your business to sell to you a set amount of electricity over a long-term agreement.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAdvantages of this method are that your business electricity costs overall are lower, as the price for electricity under a PPA will be cheaper than what you are currently paying the retailer. Moreover, there is no upfront cost for installing the system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EHowever, a major disadvantage is that your business will be obligated to buy all of the electricity generated by the system, regardless of whether this energy is self-consumed by your business or sent to the grid for a possible feed-in tariff.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAs self-consumed solar energy is far more valuable than solar electricity that is exported to the grid for a feed-in tariff, if you are considering a PPA it is very important to have the system optimally sized for maximum self-consumption, taking non-working times into account.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EPPA\u2019s set out the price of solar energy for the duration of the PPA. While a low price for year one is obviously a good start, it\u2019s imperative to read the fine print on how the prices will be adjusted over time.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe best PPA is one that, over its term, increases its prices at a lower rate (or not at all), rather than the one with the lowest starting price and then inflates by 5% p.a. (be wary of compound indexing!)\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3) Loan\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EA business loan will allow you to negotiate pricing with a commercial solar installer as if you were a cash buyer. If the savings from a new commercial solar system are more than what you pay on interest for the loan \u2013 you can see why this would be an obvious finance option to avoid taking a big cash-flow hit to your business by using cash/capex to buy a solar system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMonitoring and maintenance of your commercial solar system\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIt\u2019s preferable not to invest in a commercial solar system that does not monitor both solar energy generation and electricity\u00A0consumption. Why? Without combined generation and consumption\u00A0monitoring, you will not have the information you need to keep\u00A0your post-solar bills as low as possible.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAnother point to consider is tasking someone within your organisation to be responsible for monitoring your\u00A0system\u2019s weekly generation.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EDo your research first! Ensure that a thorough load profile analysis is conducted in order to invest in the most accurately sized system for your businesses\u2019 requirements.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EMoreover, don\u2019t be fooled into investing in a simple solar generation monitoring system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAny good monitoring solution will provide you with the ability to check your gross\u00A0consumption \u2013meaning\u00A0you will be\u00A0able to view, for any particular hour, the \u2018before and after\u2019 of solar\u2019 s contribution to your business.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EFurthermore, a maintenance schedule is important to adopt. A reputable installer will provide a maintenance schedule to their customer. For larger commercial systems, installers will offer a\u00A0very comprehensive and tailor-made schedule\u00A0to either conduct themselves, or for the business to arrange\u00A0from a third party.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ETypically, an installer will offer a check every 6 months for the first 2 years, and would have their own preferred pressure washing company that they can recommend when dirt and other materials start to affect\u00A0the performance of the system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EPanel cleaning should be undertaken on a case by case basis and not scheduled. The solar panel design and layout should be designed to enable self-cleaning through capitalising on wind and rain fall, but may require manual intervention in high pollution/dust areas.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EBe warned - some installers\u00A0may attempt to not honour a warranty if the maintenance is completed by a third party. This is just a ploy for them to make more money. Always read the fine print of your maintenance contract to avoid this.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EOn a final note it is important to choose an installer that is likely to remain in business throughout the life span of your solar system which is expected to be in excess of 20 years. Should the installer cease to be in business following the installation you would have little to no recourse in the event of critical failure.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EResources:\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E1. \u003Cstrong\u003ELEARN\u003C/strong\u003E more about \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=LEARN--Solar-Funding-Models\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Esolar funding models\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E2. \u003Cstrong\u003EDOWNLOAD\u003C/strong\u003E information\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/commercial-solar-offer-2020.pdf\u0022\u003E- We provide trusted commercial solar solutions.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/magnet-capital.pdf\u0022\u003E- Finance your energy project through your electricity savings\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E3.\u003Cstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003ECHAT\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E to us for more information.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESource: \u003C/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u0022\u003Ehttps://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Aug 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "READ | A guide to commercial solar power systems - pt 2", "nid": "524", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022commercial solar\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00223c80feb7-67c5-4e34-91bd-693f9aae010d\u0022 height=\u0022229\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/hydrologic-rooftop-solar-installation-agt-1200x500.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022550\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EConsidering investing in a solar system for your business? Then this series is for you!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--A-guide-to-commercial-solar-power-systems---pt-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 1:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nCommon sizes breaks for commercial-sized solar systems\u003Cbr /\u003E\nCommercial solar designs and layouts\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 2:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u003Cstrong\u003EExpectations you should have for your solar installer\u003Cbr /\u003E\nInverters in a commercial-sized solar system\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 3:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nMonitoring and maintenance of your commercial solar system\u003Cbr /\u003E\nFinancing a commercial solar system\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat should you expect from the initial meeting with a prospective solar installer?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAny reputable commercial solar installer will first begin by conducting an energy profile analysis on your property.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou can expect this analysis to commence with a request to review your electricity bills. The installer should request to see at least a year\u2019s worth of electricity bills. He will inspect these to see the tariff your business is on, and analyse interval data in order to accurately project paybacks.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYour electricity bills are also used to calculate the energy consumption during daylight hours \u2013 especially in winter. This will allow the installer to determine what\u2019s more important \u2013 roof space or what you, as the customer, actually need. For example, you may need a 100kW system, but only able to fit 50kW on your roof \u2013 an energy profile analysis will be able to definitively tell you if it\u2019s still worthwhile going ahead.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOther expectations for an initial meeting with a solar installer include conversation around understanding your business needs and goals, as well as a discussion on the various financing solutions available.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInverters in a commercial-sized solar system\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EBroadly speaking, there are three options when it comes to choosing a solar inverter setup for a commercial-scale job:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EPower optimisers\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMicro inverters\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChained string inverters\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ELarge central inverters\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECost is key in a commercial system. Micro inverters carry a 20% premium in price over conventional string inverters, but offer a variety of safety and performance benefits.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOptimiser systems on the other hand offer a great balance between micro inverters and string inverters. Optimisers strike the perfect balance between performance vs cost, while out performing string inverters and still being more cost effective than Micro Inverters.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESome of the benefits of Optimisers include:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFuture proofing the system and design should you need to expand in the future\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFuture proofing your panels should you need to change a few panels a few year\u2019s down the line, optimisers can virtually accept any panel size and any brand\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen dealing with solar installations on the commercial scale, it could be difficult to justify such an expense to your business for micro inverters (for example) compared to a string inverter system that will effectively produce almost the same power.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EString inverters represent a more cost-effective option \u2013 but some commercial installers may tend to lean towards chaining residential-sized inverters together, instead of using one large central inverter.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThis preference is for a variety of reasons:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFew commercial roofs suit a huge single array, and multiple smaller inverters gives design flexibility with different strings (MPPT\u2019s)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAccess. It\u2019s much easier to move and install briefcase-sized inverters compared to a central inverter that is the size of a small room \u2013 especially if you need to use heavy machinery to lift and position it.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ERedundancy. One failure doesn\u2019t cripple the entire system.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EUltimately, it is up to the solar installer to make their recommendation based on your unique situation, and for you to decide whether you want a \u2018no frills\u2019 system or a work of electrical engineering art on your roof.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=LEARN--The-World-of-Inverters\u0022\u003ELEARN\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E more about inverters.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWe provide trusted commercial solar solutions\u2026\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/commercial-solar-offer-2020.pdf\u0022\u003EDOWNLOAD\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E our brochure!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us for more information.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESource: \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u0022\u003Ehttps://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Aug 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "READ | A guide to commercial solar power systems - pt 1", "nid": "520", "body": "\u003Cp\u003EConsidering investing in a solar system for your business? Then this NEW series is for you.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 1:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u003Cstrong\u003ECommon sizes breaks for commercial-sized solar systems\u003Cbr /\u003E\nCommercial solar designs and layouts\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 2:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nExpectations you should have for your solar installer\u003Cbr /\u003E\nInverters in a commercial-sized solar system\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 3:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nMonitoring and maintenance of your commercial solar system\u003Cbr /\u003E\nFinancing a commercial solar system\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022commercial solar system\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022be7a8212-a42d-4550-9696-57d1afee6ff0\u0022 height=\u0022201\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Commercial-solar-power-Plant.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022596\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECommon size breaks for commercial solar systems\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETo put commercial-sized solar systems into perspective, a common residential solar power system size is 6.6kW.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELess than 30\u00A0kW\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u00A0(Up to about 100 panels)\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese systems typically use the same hardware and fall under the same grid connection rules as residential systems. The implication here is that most installers who perform residential-sized installations can usually handle business-sized installs up to this level, without necessarily needing any expert commercial solar power knowledge.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA 30\u00A0kW system could generate in excess of\u00A0120\u00A0kWh of electricity a day on average, over a year.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E30-100\u00A0kW\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECommercial solar arrays of this size require special systems to protect the grid from all the electricity they\u00A0can generate, and need special permission from the electricity provider to connect to the grid. A commercial solar system specialist is recommended for business systems this size (and larger).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECommercial solar systems in this size range are typically installed on medium sized office buildings, fuel service stations, local clubs and small retail businesses.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOver 100\u00A0kW\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese solar systems are typically installed on hotels, large offices, and small to medium factories.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOver 250kW\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese systems are very large. As such, these systems are installed by specialists who understand the specific engineering requirements of large commercial systems.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese systems generally go on large shopping centres\u00A0or where there is a higher expected energy usage.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECommercial solar designs and layouts\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWeight is one of the biggest factors when it comes to installing a commercial-sized solar array on the roof of a business.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIt is vitally important that a structural engineering certificate is produced, and an engineer has physically inspected the site.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EBe sure that a detailed roof plan is shown to you well before installation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFlat panel arrays are generally more common compared to tilt-frame installations. They are cost effective (tilt frames add additional cost) and can be altered to suit last minute variations easily.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EGround mount systems are an option if a roof is unsuitable for solar, but they represent a niche type of commercial installation and require a lot more planning (and cost) compared to a roof-mount installation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--Solar-Roof-Mounts-vs-Ground-Mounts\u0022\u003ELEARN\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E more about Solar Roof Mounts vs Ground Mount Systems\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe provide trusted commercial solar solutions\u2026\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/commercial-solar-offer-2020.pdf\u0022\u003EDOWNLOAD\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E our brochure!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us for more information.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESource:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u0022\u003Ehttps://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Jul 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "READ | Smart Meters vs Analogue Meters", "nid": "497", "body": "\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EHow certain are you that you\u2019re being billed accurately for your electricity consumption?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn this article, we compare smart meters to analogue meters. We outline the working principle of a smart meter, and discuss their pros and cons for both the consumer and the electric utility.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat are meters used for?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAn electric meter is used to measure how much electricity is being consumed in a residential or commercial building. It provides data on the amount of electricity consumed to power the lights, heating and cooling systems or any electrical device installed in your home or facility. These meters can either be an analogue meter or a digital \u201Csmart\u201D meter.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EElectrical power usage is measured in kilowatt hours (kWh). A kilowatt hour represents the consumption of 1000 watts in one hour of time. The electricity bill you receive every month is calculated by multiplying the amount of electricity consumed and the tariff rate.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAnalogue Meters\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAn analogue electrical meter is a device that is useful for monitoring electricity usage on a periodic basis, as well as checking the accuracy of electric bills monthly. The device consists of running dials that are best read by trained personnel. The purpose of the device is to indicate how much electricity has been used since the previous reading. Representatives from the electric utility or municipality will have to take monthly readings to determine your electricity consumption.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cfigure role=\u0022group\u0022 class=\u0022caption caption-img align-center\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cimg alt=\u0022analogue meter\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022c9dbcbc3-9227-49ae-afd1-67d7e6e0605e\u0022 height=\u0022388\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/electric-meter-replacement-500x500.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022325\u0022 /\u003E\n\u003Cfigcaption\u003EAnalogue Meter\u003C/figcaption\u003E\n\u003C/figure\u003E\n\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESmart Meters\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EA smart meter is an interactive and multifunctional device, compared to an analogue meter. It performs the function of recording electricity use daily, and shares the information between electricity suppliers and consumers. This sharing of information is conducted over wireless frequency networks. A smart meter used for a home energy management system allows for an advanced metering infrastructure to be created with supporting interactive devices. This system manages energy consumption. For example, a smart meter can be programmed to reduce the electricity consumed during non-peak hours, reducing costs in the future. \u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cfigure role=\u0022group\u0022 class=\u0022caption caption-img align-center\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Schneider PM8240 smart meter \u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00222caf1a14-b3c3-4cd1-922d-74eb36444d7f\u0022 height=\u0022212\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/METSEPM8240.JPG\u0022 width=\u0022321\u0022 /\u003E\n\u003Cfigcaption\u003ESchneider Electric PM8240 Smart Meter\u003C/figcaption\u003E\n\u003C/figure\u003E\n\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow Does a Smart Meter Work?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EA smart electricity meter operates by measuring the voltage and electrical current flow at regular intervals. Using this data, it then adds up the power consumed in 30-minute intervals. This information is then sent to your in-home display and to your electricity supplier. Different communication technologies are used in different kinds of premises. For example, a Home Area Network (HAN) is used to communicate with your in-home display, whilst a different technology will be implemented to allow a Wide Area Network (WAN) to send data to and from the communications company.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EApart from measuring energy, the meter is also able to constantly monitor its own performance and environment. An example of this, is that in the event of the meter having an internal memory problem or if the terminal cover has been removed, then the meter will report it. The supplier will then send someone to resolve the problem after contacting you.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022diagram\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022f7f71c49-55cc-40ec-8013-05b40c95846a\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Smart%20meters%20diagram.png\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cfigure role=\u0022group\u0022 class=\u0022caption caption-img align-center\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Typical load profile\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022342f1d90-afa9-4f99-b970-acd998acbdf4\u0022 height=\u0022228\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Typical%20load%20profile%20generated%20from%20a%20Smart%20Meter%20reading.JPG\u0022 width=\u0022887\u0022 /\u003E\n\u003Cfigcaption\u003ETypical load profile generated from a Smart Meter reading\u003C/figcaption\u003E\n\u003C/figure\u003E\n\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAdvantages of Smart Meters for Consumers\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMore accurate readings can be obtained as the risk of human error would be removed.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EA smart meter allows for a far greater and a more detailed feedback regarding energy use.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIt enables the consumer to adjust their habits so that they can reduce their electricity bill.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe use of a smart meter will assist in highlighting faulty appliances. As it indicates the usage at any time, it will allow you to notice any sudden spikes in electricity that could be associated with a faulty appliance. Therefore, identifying these promptly will ensure that the fault is dealt with quickly and safely. \u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDisadvantages of Smart Meters for Consumers\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAn increase in cost for the installation of a new meter.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThere are privacy concerns for the personal data that is collected and how it will be used.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe consumer has an increase in responsibilities for the meter.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAdvantages of Smart Meters for Electric Companies\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe use of it will eliminate manual monthly meter readings.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMonitors the electrical system in real time.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe use of the meter will encourage more efficient use of power resources.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIt assists in providing more responsive data for the balancing of electric loads whilst reducing blackouts.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIt allows for dynamic pricing.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe use of the device will allow for the optimization of profit with existing resources.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDisadvantages of Smart Meters for Electric Companies\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAn electrical company will incur an additional cost to train personnel, develop equipment and implement new processes for data storage.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe company will have to manage public reaction and feedback concerning new meters.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMaking a long-term financial commitment to new hardware/software.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEnsuring the security and privacy of metering data.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERESOURCES:\u00A0\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EClick \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=NEW-SERIES--Understanding-Net-Metering---Part-2\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHERE\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to learn about Net Metering\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EClick \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.pmedemo.biz/web/#Trends/\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHERE\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to view Schneider\u0027s Power Monitoring demo site\u00A0\u003Cstrong\u003E(Username \u0026amp; Password: demo)\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ENeed a smart metering solution? \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Electrical Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us!\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "May 2021", "terms": "Solar, Back-Up Power, Education" }, { "title": "READ | Unpacking the 15% Tariff Increase", "nid": "494", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/index.php\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022electricity\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u002227507dde-4914-4df7-886e-e3c3a382fc5e\u0022 height=\u0022278\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Electricitycosts.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022444\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe cost of electricity is increasing. Coupled with the financial impact of the pandemic and the instability of our power supply, the rising cost of electricity is certainly a matter not to be ignored.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn this article, we give an overview of the latest tariff increase that was approved by the Gauteng High Court, how much it will cost, as well as the reasoning behind the increase. We also discuss the impact on the vulnerable industrial sectors, and pose solutions to lessen the impact of the rising electricity costs.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EThe tariff increase explained\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ESouth Africans are expected to experience a sharp increase in electricity costs. This is a result of the Gauteng High Court ruling that R10 billion be added to Eskom\u2019s allowable revenue for the 2021/2022 financial year. This increase comes at a time after a recent a R6 billion increase was approved by the regulator, which started in April 2021. As stated by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), this will result in an average tariff percentage increase of 15.63% in 2021/2022.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe ruling follows the allowance of Eskom\u2019s application to recover R23 billion in the 2021/2022 financial year, as per a court judgement that was handed down in July 2020. It was found by the court that NERSA should not have included a R69 billion government bailout into the calculations when it was determining the tariff increase for the utility.\u00A0 As a result, NERSA must now add the required R69 billion which will be broken up into three amounts of R23 billion, which will be added to electricity tariffs over the next three financial years.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EInstead of the R23 billion being recovered, R10 billion was agreed, as NERSA had already decided on other Eskom applications that will cause a tariff increase in the 2021/2022 financial year.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EHow Much Will the Tariff Increase Cost?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAs per the court ruling, the average standard tariff for Eskom customers will increase by 5.44c/kWh, resulting in the aggregate average standard tariff for direct customers being 134.30c/kWh.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhy Has There Been an Increase in Electricity Tariffs?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAccording to the power utility, the order will contribute to the \u201Cuser pay\u201D principle and it will likely reduce the financial burden of the government supporting Eskom. This will allow the government to focus on other priorities. The \u201Cuser pay\u201D principle is a pricing approach that is based on the idea that the most efficient allocation of resources will occur when the consumer pays the full cost of the goods that they consume.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EEskom also stated that the implementation of this order will enable the power utility to move towards addressing the revenue shortfalls that it had experienced, and will allow the company to recover the incurred costs to produce electricity. This will help improve Eskom\u2019s financial sustainability.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EIs all lost for the poor and the vulnerable industrial sectors?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ENot entirely\u2026 Eskom\u2019s Chief Financial Officer, Calib Cassim, welcomed the decision made by the Gauteng High Court and stressed that poor residential customers will still be supported by the free basic electricity programme as well as affordable subsidies provided for in the NERSA tariff decision.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIndustrial sectors that have been identified as vulnerable have been considered by NERSA and have both short-term and long-term negotiated pricing agreements which was put into effect by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ECan these rising electricity costs be avoided?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe implementation of energy-efficient measures and alternative power, such as a solar system, can reduce reliance on the electricity grid. Although the initial cost of a PV system can be high, the increase in electricity tariffs has reduced the duration of the return on investment.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EWe can help you to reduce your electricity bills and your carbon footprint. \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us now!\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "May 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" } ]