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[ { "title": "Read | Understanding Carbon Tax - part 2", "nid": "484", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022emissions\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u002242e16af0-03ab-44ef-921c-8694fc17314e\u0022 height=\u0022358\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/bloom-carbon-sasol-1-1-1600x800.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022716\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAfter almost a decade in the works, South Africa\u2019s carbon tax was finally signed into law in 2019. In a bid to mitigate the impacts of climate change, government now taxes greenhouse gas emissions. This tax applies to anyone with emissions, including municipalities.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=Read--Understanding-Carbon-Tax---part-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 1\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E of the series, we introduced you to the Carbon Tax Act. We gave a basic introduction to greenhouse gases and how the Carbon Tax works. We ended off with an explanation as to how the revenue service measures the amount of emissions produced by your plant.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn Part 2, we give an overview of how the carbon tax is calculated. We then move on to explaining how you can reduce the carbon footprint of your plant.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow is the Carbon Tax Liability Calculated?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EA factory\u2019s total greenhouse gas emission is obtained by multiplying both the quantity of each greenhouse gas produced (kg/year) and the global warming potential figure. These six numbers, for each greenhouse gas, are then summed and referred to as the carbon dioxide equivalent emission.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EInitially, the carbon tax rate was implemented at R120 per ton of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions.\u00A0 The rate will increase annually by inflation plus a further 2% until 2022, and thereafter annually by inflation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ESARS has also allowed specific industries to have a nett carbon tax rate ranging from R6 to R48 per ton of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions. This is implemented to provide current emitters time to transition their operation to cleaner technologies through investments in energy efficiency, renewables, and other low-carbon measures.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ETaxpayers can also use tax-free allowances to reduce their tax obligation. These allowances are then given as rebates or refunds when verified.\u00A0 The following allowances have been permitted:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAllowance for fossil fuel combustion \u2013 60%\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ECarbon budget allowance \u2013 5%\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ETrade exposure allowance \u2013 10%\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EPerformance allowance \u2013 5%\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAllowance for industrial process emissions\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EOffset allowance \u2013 5%\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAllowance in respect of fugitive emissions\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEnsure that you are compliant\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EPersons that conduct activities that are above the threshold must license each of their emission generation facilities with SARS as customs and excise manufacturing warehouses for environmental levy purposes.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReducing Carbon Emissions\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EYour plant can reduce its carbon footprint by implementing the following procedures:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMonitor energy usage\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tImplementing smart meters to indicate which part of your business uses the most amount of energy will help you manage your usage more accurately\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReduce energy usage\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tOnce you have identified the part of your plant that is wasting energy, it is possible to tighten up and become more efficient. Small changes such as switching off machines that are on standby and switching lights and computers off can contribute to a reduction in energy usage.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EImprove the energy efficiency in your plant\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tConsider making a few of these changes:\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t-\u00A0Change the light bulbs of your plant to LED\u2019s\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t-\u00A0Switch off artificial light where possible and use natural light\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t-\u00A0Optimize air compressors\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t-\u00A0Regular maintenance of machinery and equipment\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t-\u00A0Control the heating and cooling of the building\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 value=\u00224\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERecycle\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tEnsure your plant has a good recycling system in place. It is essential to first attempt to minimise waste but if it\u2019s not possible, it is best to recycle or reuse.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 value=\u00225\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESwitch to green energy\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tUsing \u2018green\u2019 energy, such as solar power, will assist in reducing the carbon footprint of your factory.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Solar\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022a5ab3bee-1295-4c2e-84ad-7c1a08fbd49c\u0022 height=\u0022309\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/solar%20energy.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022927\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you would like to reduce the carbon footprint in your plant as well as help create a better and cleaner environment for your employees, \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to our experts now!\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Apr 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "Read | Understanding Carbon Tax - part 1", "nid": "483", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022carbon tax\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022c99034c9-6f0e-49df-8a66-2a4ebc251005\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/CO2%20image.png\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EDo you know about the Carbon Tax Act that was implemented in 2019? Are you aware that your plant may be liable to pay for greenhouse gases it releases throughout the year?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ENo? Then this two-part series of articles is for you!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn Part 1, we take a look at the Carbon Tax Act that was implemented on the 1\u003Csup\u003Est\u003C/sup\u003E of June 2019. We start with a basic introduction to greenhouse gases and what causes them. We then move on to how the Carbon Tax works, and how the revenue service measures the amount of emissions produced by your plant. \u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn Part 2, we will give an overview of how the carbon tax is calculated and then shed some light on how you can reduce the carbon footprint of your plant.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESouth Africa is the 14\u003Csup\u003Eth\u003C/sup\u003E largest greenhouse gas emitter in the world.\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EGiven the global attention paid to Climate Change of late, it has become increasingly vital for our country to reduce emissions. Therefore, carbon tax was implemented with the intention to encourage cleaner practices.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat Causes Greenhouse Gases?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EFuel combustion is one of the most common activities that result in the emission of greenhouse gases. For example, companies that use boilers in their plant fall under the fuel combustion category. These companies will have to comply with the Carbon Tax act.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EGreenhouse gases are also emitted from other processes apart from fuel combustion. Moreover, certain activities also inadvertently release greenhouse gases as fugitive emissions.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe Carbon Tax Act lists a range of industrial activities that release greenhouse gases. These activities are then further classified as causing either combustion process or fugitive emissions.\u00A0 The carbon tax obligation of the taxpayer is equivalent to the sum of the taxpayer\u2019s combustion process and the fugitive emissions released.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhich Pollutants are referred to as Greenhouse Gases?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe carbon tax act lists six greenhouse gasses that are emitted from industrial activities. These pollutants are\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ECarbon Dioxide (CO\u003Csub\u003E2\u003C/sub\u003E),\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EMethane (CH\u003Csub\u003E4\u003C/sub\u003E),\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ENitrous Oxide (N\u003Csub\u003E2\u003C/sub\u003EO),\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EHydrofluorocarbons (HFCs),\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EPerfluorocarbons (PFCs) \u00A0and\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ESulphur Hexafluoride (SF6)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow does Carbon Tax Work?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe treasury has implemented a 10 MW installed thermal input capacity threshold for combustion activities that result in emissions. This indicates that, regardless of utilisation or the fuel type, if your plant has the capacity to combust a minimum of 10MW (thermal), then your emissions will be subjected to carbon tax. It is required that the input capacity consist of the sum of all input capacities across all your facilities.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EA lot of processes and fugitive emissions have no threshold which will result in you being taxed regardless how small your operation is. Activities such as domestic aviation and CO\u003Csub\u003E2 \u003C/sub\u003Etransport have unique thresholds, whilst certain activities such as stationary air conditioning, are not subjected to tax at all.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat are the Scopes of Emissions?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EScope 1\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nAll Direct Emissions from the activities of an organisation or under their control. Including fuel combustion on site such as gas boilers, fleet vehicles and air-conditioning leaks.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EOnly Scope 1 emissions are taxable.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EScope 2 \u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nIndirect Emissions from electricity purchased and used by the organisation. Emissions are created during the production of the energy and eventually used by the organisation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EScope 3 \u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nAll Other Indirect Emissions from activities of the organisation, occurring from sources that they do not own or control. These are usually the greatest share of the carbon footprint, covering emissions associated with business travel, procurement, waste and water.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EScope 2 and 3 emissions are indirect, and thus the consequence is tariff increases.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Scopes\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u002253ae27a2-54c6-4d1b-bfc3-e0cac5d29bc8\u0022 height=\u0022279\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/scopes-1-2-3-definition-2.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022625\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow are emissions measured?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe activities in your plant will be subjected to a carbon tax if the combined capacity of your plant is over the threshold limit. The amount of tax that is paid depends on the actual emissions of the plant, but it is difficult and expensive to accurately measure.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEmitters in the country will have the option of using \u2018emission factors\u2019 that have been established by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. These factors are used to give an estimation of greenhouse gases that are emitted, depending on the amount of fuel burned or the amount of product produced. \u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe emission factors for greenhouse gases are depicted in the table below:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ctable border=\u00221\u0022 cellpadding=\u00220\u0022 cellspacing=\u00220\u0022\u003E\n\u003Ctbody\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGreenhouse Gas\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGlobal Warming Potential\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003ECarbon Dioxide (CO\u003Csub\u003E2\u003C/sub\u003E)\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E1\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003EMethane (CH\u003Csub\u003E4\u003C/sub\u003E)\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E23\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003ENitrous Oxide (N\u003Csub\u003E2\u003C/sub\u003EO)\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E296\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003EHexafluoroethane (C\u003Csub\u003E2\u003C/sub\u003EF\u003Csub\u003E6\u003C/sub\u003E)\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E11 900\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003ECarbon Tetrafluoride (CF\u003Csub\u003E4\u003C/sub\u003E)\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E5700\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003Ctr\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003ESulphur Hexafluoride (SF6)\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd style=\u0022width:301px;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E22 200\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\n\u003C/tbody\u003E\n\u003C/table\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u00A0As time progresses, more accurate domestic emission factors will be developed for use in South Africa.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EConsidering renewable energy?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe offer specialised solar solutions. \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us for:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EGrid-tied, hybrid and off-grid solar system design and installation\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBespoke solutions specific to your application and energy goals\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EGuaranteed system performance\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Apr 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "LEARN | Do you know the energy output of your solar panels? ", "nid": "473", "body": "\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThis is an excellent question. If you have a solar system, you would definitely want to know your return on the investment. In this quick article, we will share with you the tools needed to calculate the amount of power your panels output. We will also mention some of the criteria that may affect solar panel efficiency.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat is the Standard Test Condition Rating?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EWhen choosing a solar panel, you would have referred to the Standard Test Condition (STC) rating to ensure the panel can generate the required amount of energy. The STC rating is indicated by a number listed on the back of the panel. This number advises the amount of power that particular panel will generate under ideal conditions. These ideal conditions of the testing environment include carefully controlled temperature and light.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EExactly 1,000 watts per square meter of solar light is shined on the solar panel during testing. The STC rating\u2019s unit of measurement is the watt or kilowatt. Wattage is calculated by multiplying the solar panel output voltage times the amperes (amps).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat factors impact solar panel output?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe solar panel output depends on multiple factors, such as the solar panel\u2019s size, efficiency, and cell type.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Solar panel size\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe average-sized solar panels found on the market today consist of either 60 or 72 photovoltaic (PV) cells. Typically, because larger solar panels offer a greater surface area to absorb sunlight, they result in higher solar panel power output. On average, 60 PV cell solar panels have a power output of 270 watts to 300 watts and 72 PV cell panels garner between 350 watts and 400 watts of power in standard test conditions.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Efficiency\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ESolar panels come with efficiency ratings. These ratings measure the amount of sunlight each solar panel captures. Solar panels with a 20% efficiency can convert 20% of the sunlight that shines on the face of that panel. Higher efficiency panels cost more than those with lower efficiency ratings.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Solar panel cell type\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe solar panel cell type also affects the power output of a solar panel. Current solar panels are made with silicon solar cells. The most common types are monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar cells which have similar solar panel power output.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat factors impact solar panel efficiency? \u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EFinding ways to minimize efficiency-loss enables your panels to generate energy optimally. There are a few factors that contribute to panel efficiency:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Maintenance\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EHow often do you clean your panels? Debris or dust build-up on panels causes them to be less efficient. Wiping them down with a soft cloth a few times a year will give them the best opportunity to operate at their optimum.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Orientation\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe direction your panels face also influences your solar system\u2019s efficiency. Face your panels towards the Equator to maximize your solar panel output. The tilt of your panels also impacts panel efficiency. Set the tilt of your panels equal to your latitude.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3. Degradation rate\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EEach year solar panels lose approximately 0.5% to 1% of their rated output. This happens to all solar panels regardless of their type, but the exact percentage varies depending on the panel. Consult the panel manufacturer\u2019s warranty for more information on degradation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E4. Shading\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EShade blocks the sunlight your solar panels are meant to absorb and reduces your system\u2019s energy production. Ideally, install your solar power panels in a location that receives full sunlight all year long.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ECalculating solar panel output\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAfter considering factors that can impact solar panel output and efficiency, you can then figure out how much power your panels are generating on a daily and monthly basis.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ESimply follow this calculation:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESolar Panel Output = STC Rating (watts) x Peak Sun Hours in a Day x 75% (Daily watt hours)\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe daily solar panel output is equal to the panel\u2019s STC rating multiplied by the peak hours of sun your panel gets in a day, multiplied by 75%. Your total is the amount of watt hours that panel produces in a day.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EWhy is 75% in the equation? That\u2019s to adjust for the factors we discussed previously that affect the solar panel output.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EOnce you know the panel\u2019s daily output, you can then multiply this number by the number of days in the month and you\u2019ll have your monthly watt hours.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EYou may be more familiar with kilowatt hours. To convert watt hours to kilowatt hours (kWh) simply divide your watt hours by 1,000.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EConsidering a solar installation for your facility? \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022maintenance of solar panels\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022f0cfc162-c068-4461-884e-68479a5feb70\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/PHOTO-2020-08-13-14-30-28.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Mar 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "READ | The Importance of Measuring Solar Radiation", "nid": "471", "body": "\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIf you\u2019re considering a solar installation for your home or facility, you may want to consider learning about measuring solar radiation. Why is this important? Because the design of your solar system (type and quantity of PV panels, etc.) is affected by the amount of sunlight present in the location of your installation at a given time.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn this article, we take a look at solar radiation, global solar radiation and the methods to measure solar radiation.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat is solar radiation?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ESolar radiation is often defined as the energy reaching the earth from the sun. A large part of this is visible sunlight, but the solar spectrum extends into the UV as well as the near infra-red.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ESolar radiation reaches us in different ways: directly from the sun (direct solar radiation), through scattering through the atmosphere (diffuse solar radiation) or via reflections. These quantities can be measured separately, but most of the times people are interested in the total radiation on the surface: the global horizontal irradiance.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat is global solar radiation?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EOur sun outputs radiation over wavelengths from 0.15 to 4.0 \u00B5m, which is called the solar spectrum. The measurement of the sun\u2019s radiation on the earth is referred to as global solar radiation. Sometimes called short-wave radiation, global solar radiation is both the direct and diffuse solar radiation received from the hemisphere.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EWhile solar radiation is the amount of radiant energy emitted by the sun, solar irradiation refers to the amount of solar radiation received from the sun per unit area which is expressed in kW/m\u00B2. The below image depicts the solar irradiance map of South Africa.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Solar map\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022faf2e19c-b22d-4f5f-88c4-62ac60413a73\u0022 height=\u0022551\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/South-Africa_PVOUT_mid-size-map_156x161mm-300dpi_v20170925_0.png\u0022 width=\u0022532\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat are the methods to measure solar radiation? \u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe two common methods which characterise solar radiation are the solar radiance (or radiation) and solar insolation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1. Solar Radiance\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe solar radiance is an instantaneous power density in units of kW/m2. The solar radiance varies throughout the day from 0 kW/m2 at night to a maximum of about 1 kW/m2. The solar radiance is strongly dependant on location and local weather. Solar radiance measurements consist of global and/or direct radiation measurements taken periodically throughout the day. The measurements are taken using either a pyranometer (measuring global radiation) and/or a pyrheliometer (measuring direct radiation). In well-established locations, this data has been collected for more than twenty years.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2. Solar insolation \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EWhile solar irradiance is most commonly measured, a more common form of radiation data used in system design is the solar insolation. The solar insolation is the total amount of solar energy received at a particular location during a specified time period, often in units of kWh/(m2 day). While the units of solar insolation and solar irradiance are both a power density (for solar insolation the \u0022hours\u0022 in the numerator are a time measurement as is the \u0022day\u0022 in the denominator), solar insolation is quite different than the solar irradiance as the solar insolation is the instantaneous solar irradiance averaged over a given time period. Solar insolation data is commonly used for simple PV system design while solar radiance is used in more complicated PV system performance which calculates the system performance at each point in the day. Solar insolation can also be expressed in units of MJ/ m\u00B2 per year.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EConsider solar radiation when designing your system\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn PV system design it is essential to know the amount of sunlight available at a particular location at a given time. Ensure that the solar service provider you engage with is able to provide you with a system design that takes solar radiation into account\u2026\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EWe\u0027re launching the second volume of our much-anticipated Solar \u0026amp; Back-Up Power catalogue next month. Be among the first to receive it, straight to your inbox. Click here to \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Catalogue\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EREGISTER\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u00A0your interest now!\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Feb 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "NEW SERIES | Understanding Net Metering - Part 3", "nid": "467", "body": "\u003Cp\u003EWe\u0027re wrapping up our series on Net Metering by taking a closer look at Kwa-Zulu\u00A0Natal. What\u00A0progress has been made in integrating Small-Scale Electricity Generation (SSEG) into the local electricity network? Read our article to find out more.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDid you miss out on previous articles in our Net Metering series? Click below to catch up now:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=NEW-SERIES--Understanding-Net-Metering---Part-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart One - what is net metering, how does it work and what are its benefits?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=NEW-SERIES--Understanding-Net-Metering---Part-2\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart Two - learn more about the device used in net metering\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003ENet Metering in Kwa-Zulu Natal\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EeThekwini municipality will be launching a pilot program to enable the integration of Small-Scale Electricity Generation (SSEG) to the local electricity network. The purpose of this is to:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFacilitate the safe and orderly interconnection of SSEG systems\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EProvide investment certainty and fair compensation to SSEG customers.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EPromote local economic development and job growth through the creation of a local SSEG industry.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EHow to Apply to be a SSEG \u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAn application process has been created to collect and assess information with regards to the connection of SSEG systems to the grid. An approval must be obtained from the municipality before the installation can commence. The installation must adhere to the technical guidelines set out and must be done in a safe and according manner.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat is the Feed in Energy Rate for the Pilot Program?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESSEG customers will be able to consume the electricity that is produced on site thus reducing the energy costs. There are various tariffs that are set out depending on whether it is a residential, business or an industrial SSEG customer but these tariffs are yet to be confirmed. The tariff structure will provide financial credit to the customer when electricity is exported to the grid.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe Feed-In-Energy Rate is set based on these two factors:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe municipality will purchase electricity from the SSEG at the same rate that it is bought from the municipality\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe tariffs set by the municipality will be set in a simple manner for the customers. This means that an SSEG customer within a certain rate class will have a similar tariff rate as before the system was installed.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EClick \u003Ca href=\u0022http://www.durban.gov.za/City_Services/electricity/Tariffs/Current%20Tariffs/Tariff%20Booklet%202020-2021.pdf\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHERE\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to read more about eThekwini Tariffs and the rolling out of the pilot program.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ERenewable energy solutions are particularly attractive in the face of load shedding, poor power quality, excessive grid power prices, or perhaps the desire to be grid independent.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDue to the rising costs of electricity and the reduction in price for solar systems, it is becoming a financially viable option to invest solar photovoltaic (PV) solutions. Once net metering becomes standardized in SA, solar will undoubtedly become even more attractive.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EConsidering solar or back-up power? \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us for expert advice on the best solutions for your application!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBgS-FfF8Ew\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022Solar panels\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022323754b6-8df4-4938-a9e5-20f5c9271628\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/pexels-photo-371900.jpeg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Feb 2021", "terms": "Solar, Back-Up Power, Education" } ]