KAROO NEWS - Load shedding struck South Africa for the first time in 2007. After so many years, there seems to be universal acceptance that load shedding is here to stay. 

It is no surprise that finding alternative energy solutions has become a much higher priority for homeowners across the country.

“There are a number of factors to consider when thinking about what alternative power sources to install in your home. These include your budget and energy needs and whether you're looking for a quick fix or a longer-term solution that could add value to your property,” says Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa.

To help homeowners decide what will work best for them, RE/MAX of Southern Africa covers three of the common alternative energy solutions.

Generators 

• As much as we want to avoid fossil fuels, a petrol- or diesel-powered generator can be the least expensive (if you don’t factor in the ongoing fuel costs) and quickest solution. Unless permanently fixed to the property, a generator will have no effect on the resale value of the home, as this will usually go with the seller to their next home. There will be noise and poisonous emissions with this option, which means that the generator must be kept outside and in a well-ventilated area. Remember that both the noise and the smell could upset your neighbours – so be considerate when you set this up.

Gas stoves and solar geysers 

• For those with less cash to spare, swapping out one or two fixtures at a time can ease your reliance on the main electrical grid. Start by exchanging an electric cooker for a gas cooker so you can still cook during load shedding. Installing a solar geyser is another great solution to slowly work your way off the grid. For both options, be sure to use a licensed installer as you will be required to produce compliance certificates in this regard should you later decide to sell.

Installing solar panels

• Solar installations can vary greatly depending on how robust of a system you want to install. A full solar electricity system will usually include photovoltaic panels on your roof, an inverter with batteries that will be connected to the distribution board, and a power meter in your home. While the capital outlay for installing solar is substantial, it’s becoming more achievable as the government and home loan institutions come to the party by offering kickbacks and financing options. This kind of installation can greatly increase the resale value of a property.

In addition to the problem of load shedding, South Africans are increasingly aware of their carbon footprints and the need to use more eco-friendly and renewable energy sources. “Apart from installing back-up or alternative power solutions, we should also practice good habits of using electricity sparingly and efficiently,” says Goslett.

As with all decisions about what is probably your biggest investment, he recommends that homeowners think carefully about the decisions they take to mitigate load-shedding. “If you have questions about the impact of installing alternative energy systems on the value of your property, contact your nearest RE/MAX office for some free advice,” he concludes.

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