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[ { "title": "NEW SERIES | Understanding Net Metering - Part 2", "nid": "465", "body": "\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn our NEW series, we\u2019re unpacking net metering.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\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\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E outlines what net metering is, how it works and its benefits. \u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn Part Two, we discuss the device used in net metering... Watch this space to catch the full series!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EThe Device used in Net Metering \u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EA four-quadrant meter is used to record energy consumption and send readings electronically to the supplier. It is used when there is an alternative source of electricity like solar, wind or biomass that is installed alongside the main grid supply.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EHow Does a Four Quadrant Meter Work?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EFirstly, it is required to understand the different types of power and the direction it flows in. These are:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EActive Power (P):\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tIt is measured in Watts (W). It is the actual power you may consume and is sometimes referred to as real power.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 value=\u00222\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EReactive Power (Q):\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tIt is measured in Volt-Ampere reactive (VAR). This is power that is stored in components which are then released back again to the source through the AC cycle. Inductors are devices that do this.\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\t\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022 value=\u00223\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EApparent Power (S):\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\tThis type of power is expressed in Volt-Ampere (VA).\u00A0 It is obtained by multiplying the RMS voltage by the RMS current. Any power supply used must have the ability to output the apparent power that is delivered to the circuit and not just the active power.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe figure below indicates the 4 quadrants used in a net meter to measure the flow and direction of electricity. There are 4 different load situations that exist when renewable energy is generated.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u00224 quadrants\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022c57109ef-4b9c-4168-92d2-806c5a6ce128\u0022 height=\u0022503\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/reactive-power-control-four-quadrants.gif\u0022 width=\u0022422\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EImporting electricity refers to when electricity is delivered from the grid to the customer. This means that there is a net inflow to the customer\u2019s site (\u002B).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EExporting electricity occurs when it is delivered to the grid from the customer. This means that there is net outflow from the customer\u2019s site (-).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EA Net Meters\u2019 Various Operating Quadrants\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EQuadrant I: Consumers import (\u002B) both active and reactive power.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EQuadrant II: Consumers import (\u002B) active energy but export (-) reactive energy.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EQuadrant III: Consumers export (-) both active and reactive energy.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EQuadrant IV: Consumers export (-) active energy but import (\u002B) reactive energy.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn the next article, we wrap up the series by taking a closer look at net metering in Kwa-Zulu Natal to understand where the province currently stands on net metering.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Subscribe\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESUBSCRIBE\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to receive these articles straight to your inbox as soon as they\u0027re published!\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Feb 2021", "terms": "Solar, Back-Up Power, Education" }, { "title": "NEW SERIES | Understanding Net Metering - Part 1", "nid": "461", "body": "\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe ever rising cost of electricity coupled with the implementation of Load Shedding in South Africa endorses the need of alternative solutions to power up your home or business... Is it possible for these alternative solutions to pay you back whilst saving you money and reducing downtime?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn this NEW series, we introduce you to the concept of net metering. This initial article discusses what net metering is, describes how it works and outlines\u00A0its benefits.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EFollow the series as we unfold more about the device used in metering, and where KwaZulu-Natal currently stands with regards to incentivizing feeding back into the grid...\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EWhat is Net Metering?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ENet metering is a billing mechanism that is used to credit owners whose renewable energy system feeds electricity back into the national grid.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EHow does Net Metering Work?\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThis occurs when a renewable energy system generates more electricity than what is used in the premises during the day. If the system has a net meter implemented, then the meter will provide a credit against the electricity that is used at night, or during periods when the electricity used exceeds the output of the solar system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022How net metering works\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u002259477224-7b80-4d12-ade9-6f02b68a9a43\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/hydro-net-metering-graphic-01_0.jpg\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EThe Benefits of Net Metering\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EEncourages the generation of electricity in a clean and efficient manner.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EExporting of power to the grid reduces consumer\u2019s future electricity bills, provided the local municipality has a feed-in-tariff structure in place.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIncreases demand of solar energy, resulting in the creation of jobs for the installers, electricians and the manufacturers that build the systems.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ENet metering also protects national electricity grid by allowing generation of electricity closer to the point of consumption.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EIn the next article...\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ENow that you have an understanding of what\u00A0net metering is, in the next article we will tackle the device used for it, and its functionality...\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EWould you like to receive these articles straight to your inbox? Then \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Subscribe\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESUBSCRIBE\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to our informative newsletters now!\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Jan 2021", "terms": "Solar, Back-Up Power, Education" }, { "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" } ]