With the rising costs of electricity in South Africa solar energy is becoming a lot more attractive than it once was.
The price of electricity supplied by the mains grid has just increased by 33 % and it is likely to jump again next year by similar or higher figures as the powers that be struggle to come to terms with the ever increasing demand for power.
So what can we the man in the street do to overcome this ever increasing electricity burden.
Converting your home to solar electricity is the way to go and it's a lot more affordable than you think.
There are two ways to go, either buy your solar power generators from green energy suppliers or go the whole hog and do it yourself with a DIY Manual. However, if you make the decision to switch to solar electricity for your home it is important to determine your electricity needs before you start shopping.
The first thing to determine is how much power you will need from your home solar electricity system as different set ups of solar panels and windmills generate different wattage outputs.
Carefully calculate your daily electricity needs as you need to include times when you need more electricty, such as in the winter, when heaters and airconditioners are put into use.
When shopping for photovoltaic systems ensure that you buy quality products as solar electricity is a long term investment. Do not buy products that offer a 15% efficiency rate and a year warranty, but rather go for a product offering you a 13% efficiency rate and a lifetime warranty. Do not rush your research as if you make a wrong decision it could prove costly.
There are three types of solar panel systems used to supply home solar electricity. The first type is where your solar panels are linked into the mains system and are tied into your current mains power meter. In this system you use the power you generate backed up by mains power.
A second system for supplying home solar electricity is a mains link with a battery backup.This system allows you to collect electricity from you solar panels, to fill your batteries for emergencies and then send the excess back through your meter to the mains which then reduces your mains account as your meter runs backwards.
The final system stands alone and has a battery backup and is not connected into the mains system and can be used for specific appliances or needs.
All the above systems can be purchased from the professional suppliers of solar electricity. You however can also generate your own solar power by building your own solar panels and wind turbines.
It just takes a little knowledge and will cost you a fraction of the price of the professionally made solar panels.
Start building your own solar power system today using our DIY solar power manual. Don’t forget the satisfaction you will have at reducing your electricity bills as other pay more and the pride you will have with reducing your carbon footprint by converting to home solar electricity.
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