While Eskom’s load shedding is suspended, make the most of your solar system to save money.

Enlit Africa 2024 Programme Unveiled: A Vital Resource for Energy-Saving Insights

As South Africa experiences a temporary pause in load-shedding, households with solar power systems have been presented with a unique opportunity to optimize their energy usage and maximize savings on electricity bills. The Enlit Africa 2024 programme, set to take place from the 21st to the 23rd of May at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, emerges as a crucial resource for individuals seeking to understand and implement effective energy-saving strategies.

During this respite from load-shedding, Marc du Plessis, Executive Head of LookSee, underscores the significance of adjusting solar system settings to capitalize on the surplus of solar-generated power. Typically, solar systems in South Africa are configured to maintain battery levels between 40% and 100% in anticipation of load-shedding events. However, during periods of grid stability, relying on Eskom or municipal grid power to top up batteries becomes an unnecessary expense.

One notable aspect highlighted by du Plessis is the overnight consumption of power by household appliances, which gradually drains batteries without solar power supplementation. Under normal circumstances, the system compensates for this drain by utilizing grid power. Yet, with load-shedding on hold, such reliance becomes redundant, emphasizing the importance of adjusting system settings to avoid unnecessary costs.

Enabling households to make these adjustments, LookSee recommends utilizing smartphone apps or user interfaces on inverters to modify solar system settings. Alternatively, solar system installers can make these changes remotely and without charge. By calculating the appropriate threshold based on battery capacity and manufacturer specifications, households can ensure that batteries are only charged with solar power, resulting in significant monthly savings.

To further optimize energy usage, LookSee advises scheduling the use of heavy-load appliances, such as geysers, washing machines, and dishwashers, during daylight hours. This strategy allows solar panels ample time to replenish battery reserves, reducing reliance on grid power and enhancing overall energy efficiency.

As South Africa navigates its energy transition, initiatives like Enlit Africa 2024 serve as invaluable platforms for disseminating knowledge and fostering discussions on sustainable energy practices. With the potential to empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions regarding energy consumption, the programme emerges as a vital resource in driving a more resilient and environmentally conscious energy future.