Designing
solar energy systems
that meet your energy needs

Frequently Asked Questions

How does solar energy work?

Solar panels are installed in locations where they can receive sunlight. The effectiveness of a solar panel depends on the amount of sunlight it receives, so optimal placement is essential;
Solar panels are made up of many individual solar cells, also known as photovoltaic cells. These cells are typically made of silicon, a semiconductor material. When sunlight hits these cells, it excites the electrons in the silicon, creating an electric current;
The direct current (DC) electricity generated by the solar cells is then passed through an inverter, which converts it into alternating current (AC). Most household appliances and the electrical grid use AC power;
The converted electricity can then be used to power homes, businesses, or be fed into the electrical grid. In some cases, solar power systems may include energy storage solutions, such as batteries, to store excess energy for use during times when the sun is not shining.

Does solar energy work during load shedding?

What size inverter would I need?

For Commercial use:

For Residential use:

You are limited by the size of your circuit breaker;
Generally a 5kw inverter will run all essentials;
If the kitchen is added to the circuit, then it is preferable to install an 8kw;
An 8kw should run all essentials (not geyser or stove) in a 3 bed, 3 bath home;
We will do a load test to ascertain your requirements.

What makes us different to other solar suppliers and installers?

The team at The Solar Installation Guys has been in business since 2105 and has built a solid reputation for honesty and transparency.

What are the advantages of going solar?

It can reduce your electricity bills and reduce your dependence on the grid (Eskom);
It is an inexhaustible source of renewable energy as long as the sun exists.
Once your system is installed, the operating and maintenance costs are relatively low compared to other forms of electricity generation;
It can be easily scaled to meet different financial and energy needs;

Is there a tax advantage with going solar?

The Income Tax Act in South Africa allows for accelerated depreciation on renewable energy assets, including solar installations;
A new section 6C of the Income Tax Act 58 of 1962 (the Act) is proposed to be introduced, which provision is proposed to allow individual taxpayers to claim a rebate to the value of 25% of the cost of new and unused solar photovoltaic (PV) panels (which are brought into use for the first time from 1 March 2023 to 1 March 2024), subject to a maximum of R15,000 per individual taxpayer

Is net metering allowed in South Africa?

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) regulates net metering in the country, and to qualify, owners of PV systems will need to go through an approval process: Must have a renewable energy system that meets the regulations and standards set by NERSA;
The Solar Installation Guys meet the standards required.

What does net metering mean?

Net metering is a billing mechanism that credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid.

Do I need permission from Eskom or the municipality to install solar panels?

You will need to register your system for authorisation with either Eskom or your local municipality;
We, at The Solar Installation Guys, register all our systems and installations with The City of Cape Town.

Does Eskom want to charge solar users?

The City of Cape Town, being DA-run, offers an incentive for the use of self-generating, renewable energy.