I start to think different about solar. I do already have a solar geyser (tubes) and it works brilliantly; water hotter than before and my total electricity consumption decreased by slightly more than 40% (i save 90%+ on my geyser heating cost). In terms of solar energy, i was told that the cost for my house would be anywhere between R40,000 and R70,000. This sounds like a lot, but see how much money do we 'write-off' when buying a car. Solar panels actually have payback period and apparently it adds value to your house. Next time you I'll replace my car, i'll look for something R70,000 cheaper and install PV panels. I'm currently considering an option whereby i don't need batteries. In this case i will apply small changes so that i maximize my energy during he day time (e.g. run pool pump during the peak of the day, reduce fridge temp setting during day time so that it needs less energy during evenings, etc.)). In this case i will be able to reduce the capital cost significantly by eliminating batteries. Later on (if load shedding becomes a problem) i may add 1 battery for 1 or 2 lights. (By the way, solar panels much better investment than a generator...)
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