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[ { "title": "READ | Tips for choosing a Solar Installer", "nid": "462", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Solar installer\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00224fc724c5-11b8-409d-828c-2f17cbae55e0\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Solar%20installer%20emailer%202.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ERoof leaks, potential fire hazards, void warranties, and lack of after-sales service\u2026 These are common problems which you could encounter if you haven\u2019t chosen your solar installer wisely.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe good news is that there certainly isn\u2019t a lack of experienced solar installers with a well-trained crew. You just need to know what to look for!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn this quick article, we\u2019re sharing a few tips which you should bear in mind before enlisting a solar service provider.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ETip 1: Expertise is key\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EChoose an installer with proven expertise in installing solar energy systems. There are a few bodies that offer compliance certification such as The South African PV GreenCard. This is a safety certification, a quality assurance standard, and training programme for solar PV installers. Quality and safety are assured via the specialized education and training provided to solar PV installers prior to them being certified and registered on the PV GreenCard database. This certification means that these installers are proficient and compliant with all of the relevant national and municipal electrical regulations. This is particularly important for insurance, finance, and regulatory purposes.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ETip 2: The more experience, the better \u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EFind an installer with a successful track record. Solar is a growing industry that attracts professionals from many backgrounds. Contractors that once focused on other types of projects are extending their practice into solar installation. When inquiring about an installer, ensure that they have an established solar track record. A solar provider should be able to discuss and show you systems installed for previous clients.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ETip 3: Reputation\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIf you have friends or acquaintances with a solar system, find out if they were happy with their installer. Online consumer reviewing platforms are another way to find out more about a company. It\u2019s also advisable to find out if the solar installer outsources its labour. If so, the quality of the installation might be less predictable\u2026\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ETip 4: Insurance and licences\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EDoes the installer have a business license and insurance policies? Typical business licenses for residential solar installers include general contracting, electrician, home improvement, or home performance contracting licenses. At a minimum, installers should also have general liability insurance. Ask them to furnish proof of these.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ETip 5: Turnaround Time\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EBecause solar energy has exploded in popularity in recent years, many solar installers have jam-packed installation schedules for months. If you want a solar system installed soon, it is wise to ask what their schedule looks like before signing a contract.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ETip 6: Warranties\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EMake sure you are clear about warranties before signing a contract with a solar panel installer. Various solar equipment comes with different manufacturer warranties, and installers often guarantee their work as well. Because solar is a pretty hefty investment, it is wise to protect yourself with a warranty. Workmanship warranties can vary widely between installers but often last between one to 10 years. The solar equipment has additional warranties that are provided by the manufacturer \u2013 look into these too.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EIn closing\u2026\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EGoing solar is a significant investment. Partner with an installer that can provide you with a strong, trusting relationship. The best installers will work with you to understand how solar fits within the energy system of your home or business. Moreover, superior installers are guides and advisors. Your solar installer should be someone that that you want to do business with, as well as a professional with the competence that you expect.\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Jan 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "READ | Common solar myths BUSTED!", "nid": "459", "body": "\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ESolar technology has evolved dramatically over the past twenty years \u2013 the cost of PV systems has decreased, efficiency has increased, and reliability has undoubtedly improved. However, despite the abundance of information on the subject, what you think you know about solar may not necessarily be the truth.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn this \u003Cstrong\u003ENEW\u003C/strong\u003E article, we\u2019re busting 8 of the most common solar myths\u2026\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Solar panels\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022d9fc54b4-53c5-442e-9eb0-2b7881adf61c\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Article-media-mitigazione-suolo.jpg\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\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMyth 1 \u2013 My solar system will provide power during load shedding\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=Grid-Tied-Off-Grid-and-Hybrid-Solar-Systems---what039s-the-difference-\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGrid-tied solar systems\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E shut down if there is no supply from the utility. If you\u2019re looking for supply during power outages, then you should consider \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=NEW-SERIES--Batteries---Understanding-Batteries\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ebattery storage\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E and other back-up power options.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMyth 2 \u2013 Solar panels are made of toxic materials\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EApproximately 96% of all \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=LEARN--Understanding-Solar-Panels\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Esolar panels\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E installed globally are made up of silicon crystalline PV cells encased in a polymer material and protected by a glass front and aluminium frame. There are no toxic materials except for a trace amount of lead used in the solder. However, even the use of solder is being phased out with the new busbar compression joining techniques and conductive paste materials being used of late.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMyth 3 \u2013 I have enough space to cover my roof with PV panels to maximise power\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAssuming your roof is strong enough, technically you can. However, your system should always be sized according to your power needs, not you roof availability. There are other factors to bear in mind when considering a \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--Is-your-roof-suitable-for-solar-panels-\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eroof mounted solar system\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E, such as the orientation of your roof. In the southern hemisphere, ideal roofs for solar installations face north, north-east, east, west or north-west.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMyth 4 \u2013 The output my solar system generates for my Durban office will be the same as for my Johannesburg and Cape Town offices. \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIrradiation varies between geographic locations and roof orientation, each site needs to be simulated on recognized software to accurately predict power production.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cfigure role=\u0022group\u0022 class=\u0022caption caption-img align-center\u0022\u003E\n\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Solar Irradiance\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00222b123eda-2794-4c6d-8900-d33cbc2e9cfb\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/South-Africa_PVOUT_mid-size-map_156x161mm-300dpi_v20170925.png\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\n\u003Cfigcaption\u003ESolar irradiance map of South Africa\u003C/figcaption\u003E\n\u003C/figure\u003E\n\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMyth 5 \u2013 Hail will break PV panels\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EPanels are tested with 2.5cm stones blasted at 80km per hour. Even in the country\u2019s most prolific hail regions, hail very rarely will crack a solar panel.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMyth 6 \u2013 Solar panels don\u2019t work when it\u2019s cloudy\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ESolar radiation is absorbed or reflected by clouds, resulting in a reduced amount of solar energy generated during cloudy weather. However, the amount of radiation that passes through the clouds depends on the type of cloud and its thickness. Solar panels will very rarely stop generating during cloudy weather for the simple reason that clouds don\u2019t completely block sunlight. If this were the case, surely it would be completely dark outside during bad weather?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMyth 7 - Going off the grid is not financially viable\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EDepending on the area in which you are located, going off grid could be a financially viable option. It is dependent on the electrical tariff structure and power security in the area.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMyth 8 \u2013 I\u2019m installing solar so I can feed back into the grid\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EWhile this may be the case overseas, it isn\u2019t yet the norm in South Africa. Of the 278 municipalities approximately 5 allow grid feedback. Grid feedback is the way of the future, unfortunately it\u2019s a work in progress.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThinking about solar? Or perhaps you\u2019re frustrated with load shedding and need advice on back-up power options? Either way, \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Econtact us\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E! We\u2019re here to help you.\u00A0\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Jan 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "READ | Is Solar the right solution for YOU? ", "nid": "455", "body": "\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/index.php\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESolar makes sense.\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E For us at Magnet, this is obvious. If we had our way, every last rooftop in the country would be outfitted with solar. However, the reality of the situation is that solar doesn\u2019t make sense for everyone. The ultimate question is whether the advantages of solar power outweigh the disadvantages.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIf you\u2018re on the fence about installing a solar solution for your home or business, then give our article a quick read. We\u2019re aiming to give an honest assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of solar to help you decide if it\u2019s a good fit for you\u2026\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESome advantages of solar energy\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Energy independence\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nIf you need a solution for load shedding, then back-up power is the way to go. If you want to embark on a journey towards going green and reducing your dependence on the grid, then a solar solution is the best option.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Eliminate your electricity bill\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nOne less bill, one less problem. With a properly sized solar system, you can drastically reduce or completely eliminate your electric bill. If this is your priority, then consider the \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=Grid-Tied-Off-Grid-and-Hybrid-Solar-Systems---what039s-the-difference-\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Edifferent types of solar systems\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E, perhaps an off-grid solar system is an option for you.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Solar Tax breaks\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nWhat makes the switch to solar even more attractive, is the fact that South African businesses can qualify for a \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=SOLAR--Switch-to-Solar-and-take-advantage-of-Tax-Breaks\u0022\u003Esolar energy tax break\u003C/a\u003E\u00A0\u003C/strong\u003E(Section 12B).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESome disadvantages of solar energy\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Expensive to get started\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nThe up-front cost is the main barrier to going solar. Of course, you\u2019re typically paying for 25 years of energy production up front. However, there are a few \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=LEARN--Solar-Funding-Models\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Esolar funding options\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E available.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Energy storage is expensive\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=NEW-SERIES--Batteries---Sizing-and-Selection\u0022\u003EBatteries\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E are the single most expensive component to a solar power system. Not all systems require batteries, but they become mandatory when you go off the grid. They are also required if you need to supply back-up power to your grid-tied property.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Solar needs space\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nSolar installations take up space. Most people opt for a roof mount solar system because it takes advantage of space that would otherwise go unused. Before investing in a system, consider \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--Is-your-roof-suitable-for-solar-panels-\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ewhether or not your roof is suitable\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E, and even consider whether a \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--Solar-Roof-Mounts-vs-Ground-Mounts\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eground mount\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E is a more feasible option.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESummary of the advantages and disadvantages of solar energy\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Solar pros and cons\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00227dc3b2aa-f177-448a-bf3a-bdeebe4744e5\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Solar%20pros%20and%20cons_2.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETalk to the experts\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EWe always advocate the importance of due diligence, and consulting with the experts when considering a solar solution. Do as much research as possible and talk to others you know of that have already made the investment.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EStill not sure? Then \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003Econtact us\u003C/a\u003E. \u003C/strong\u003EWe\u2019re here to answer any questions you may have, clear any design hurdles and help you decide if solar makes sense for you!\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Nov 2020", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "LEARN | Understanding UPS systems", "nid": "451", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022UPS\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00220d43037a-18ab-4dfc-9994-5b691ce67426\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/ups-pic.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you\u2019re in the market for a UPS, read our quick article to learn UPS basics, the type of protection they offer, and what important considerations you should keep front of mind when selecting a UPS\u2026\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is a UPS?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAn uninterruptible power supply or uninterruptible power source (UPS) is a device that:\u003Cbr /\u003E\n1. Provides back-up power when utility power fails, either long enough for critical equipment to shut down gracefully so that no data is lost, or long enough to keep required loads operational until a generator comes online.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E2. Conditions incoming power so that all-too-common sags and surges do not damage sensitive electronic gear.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat protection does a UPS offer?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EUPS Systems have three different levels of protection that they offer:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Offline UPS systems\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- acts as a battery back-up\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- predominantly for residential use\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Line interactive UPS system\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- offer automatic voltage regulation and power surge protection\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- maintains the power output to equipment at normal levels\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- takes over when the power goes out\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- the amount of output from a line interactive UPS depends on its kVA Rating\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Online double conversion UPS system\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- the highest level of UPS protection\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- used to protect equipment that is vital to business operations such as IT suites and data centres\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- have a zero changeover time as they provide a constant, pure sine wave electrical supply to equipment\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat to consider when selecting a UPS?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIt is important to ask the right questions when it comes to deciding on a back-up power supply. Here are three important questions you should consider:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\n\u003Cstrong\u003E1. What equipment do you need a UPS to protect?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- consider how important the equipment is that you want to protect, common items include security systems and servers\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- you may need to back-up expensive equipment, whereas only a safe shut down is essential for other equipment\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- also consider the duration for which the equipment will require UPS power\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\n\u003Cstrong\u003E2. What is the equipment\u2019s current electrical draw?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- consider how much power is drawn from each of the items your UPS will need to protect\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\n\u003Cstrong\u003E3. How much space do you have?\u003C/strong\u003E\u00A0\u003Cbr /\u003E\n- UPS systems can be range from oversized and cumbersome, to petite and compact. It all depends on the type and quantity of equipment you need to protect, and you may be limited to the amount of space you can allocate the storage of UPS systems.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EConclusion\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor businesses to operate optimally, a back-up power solution should definitely be considered. Turn to a UPS system for the dual protection of offering back-up power, and conditioning incoming power to your sensitive or critical equipment.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ENeed a back-up power solution for your facility? \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChat\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to our experts now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Nov 2020", "terms": "Electrical, Solar, Back-Up Power, Education" }, { "title": "READ | Solar Roof Mounts vs Ground Mounts", "nid": "448", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/index.php\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Magnet solar array\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022913c8bec-cd62-4576-a1f9-b40406653e25\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/ground-vs-roof.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESolar Roof Mounts or Ground Mounts \u2013 which is the best option for you? \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESo you\u2019ve done your due diligence and chosen the ideal PV system\u2026 Now it\u2019s time to consider which mounting method is the best option for your application, budget and energy needs.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn this article, we\u2019re outlining the two types of mounting options \u2013 roof mount and ground mount racking systems. See how they compare and decide which option is most suitable for you!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat is a mount? \u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nIt is a foundation that holds your solar system in place. There are typically two options for mounting \u2013 roof or ground mount.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERoof mounted solar panels\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nRoof mount systems affix to brackets on your roof. Whether a home or a commercial property, roof mounted systems do typically tend to be the most popular choice on the\u00A0 basis that it is more affordable and less complicated to acquire permission. However, it is imperative to first have your roof structurally assessed to ascertain its strength to support a solar system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ERoof mounts are an ideal option if you:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWould like to outlay less capital upfront\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ERequire a system that is simpler to install\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDon\u2019t have much space on your property\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen you put a solar system on your roof, the most complicated part of the structure is already in place. This means that you wouldn\u2019t have to dig holes, get the soil surveyed, worry about your property line, or purchase expensive materials like poles and concrete.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\nIs your roof suitable for solar panels? Click \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--Is-your-roof-suitable-for-solar-panels-\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Ehere \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003Eto find out!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGround mounted solar panels\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA ground mounted system is a slightly more complex solution in the sense that these structures require municipal permission (for homes and commercial properties), they are more labour-intensive to install and they are more expensive.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u00A0\u003Cbr /\u003E\nHowever, they are the alternative option you may want to consider in these instances:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIf your roof is not structurally sound to accommodate the additional weight of the PV Array\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIf you have a complex roof design (orientation etc.)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIf your roof would require replacement within the panel\u2019s lifetime\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIf your roof has space constraints\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\nIf you decide to go ground-mount, you will enjoy the following advantages:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe ease with which you can access panels for cleaning or troubleshooting\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAssuming space is not an issue, you have the benefit of expanding your system down the road (if your energy requirements change) or you could even get creative with a unique installation option (such as solar trees)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EIt\u2019s a wrap\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nHere\u2019s a brief summary of the main points of comparison between the two mounting options:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/index.php\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Roof vs ground mount\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00225c1e62b1-034e-4175-a224-f49faf357f0e\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Roof%20vs%20ground%20mount_0.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn the end, neither mounting system is \u201Cbetter\u201D than the other. The choice is entirely dependent on how your budget, energy needs, and lifestyle come together.\u00A0As always, we recommend that you consult with a professional to assist you in making these decisions.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ENeed a solar or back-up power solution? Click \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za\u0022\u003Ehere\u003C/a\u003E \u003C/strong\u003Eto chat to our experts now!\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", "created": "Nov 2020", "terms": "Solar, Education" } ]