Solar guides
Plain answers to the questions we hear on site visits: sizing, system types, batteries, paperwork, cleaning and comparing quotes.
How much solar do I need? A plain sizing methodYou can get close to the right system size with a pen, your electricity bill and four steps. This is the same method our sizing tool uses, written out so you can check it.6 min read
- Hybrid, grid-tied or off-grid: which solar system fits youThe three kinds of solar system explained: what each does in a power cut, what it costs to run, and which homes and businesses each one suits.5 min read
- Lithium vs lead-acid batteries for solarCompare lithium iron phosphate and lead-acid solar batteries on usable capacity, cycle life, maintenance, weight and real cost per usable kWh.5 min read
- Registering solar with your municipality (SSEG)What small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) registration is, which systems need it, the documents municipalities usually ask for, and how to avoid delays.6 min read
- How often should you clean solar panels?How dust, pollen and bird droppings affect solar output, how often South African homes and farms should clean panels, and how to do it without damage.4 min read
- What to check on a solar quote before you signA checklist for comparing solar quotes in South Africa: equipment specs, what is on backup, compliance paperwork, warranties, workmanship and payment terms.6 min read