What you need to know about going off the grid

It's doubtful that there are many of us in South Africa who haven't considered going off the grid at least once when the dreaded loadshedding notifications light up our phones. Over and above this, thought leaders and forward thinkers around the world are considering the benefits of lowering our reliance on the grid in light of environmental concerns. Jawitz Properties takes a look at the alternative and delves into what it would take to get your home at least partially self-powered.

Is going off the grid viable?

While going off the grid altogether can be hugely expensive and impractical based on space considerations, installing some solar panels, getting an inverter or switching to gas cooking can make a big difference when loadshedding hits. There are various steps that you can take to make your family less reliant on Eskom power.

Various power options are available

Given South Africa's reputation as a sunshine nation, solar power is a viable option for South African families. Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells that capture energy from the sun and this energy is then converted to alternate current by an inverter. When interviewed by Ooba about the possibilities brought about by solar power, Grahame Cruikshanks from South Africa's Green Building Council stressed the importance of every home's solar system being correctly sized, specified and installed. If you're interested in solar power, the best place to start will be to get the expert opinion of a professional.

Gas power is another way to go to lessen your reliance on Eskom. For starters, you can make loadshedding less of a hassle by investing in a gas stove. Over and above that, it's worth remembering that your geyser will typically account for about 60% of your household's electricity usage. A gas-powered geyser offers various advantages, including the ability to control the level and rate of heating.

A third option for families wishing to go off the grid is battery power and UPS systems, which are commonly used during loadshedding to keep the WiFi - if not also the lights - up and running.

Four things to consider before you think about going off the grid

1. Get your lights prepared
   
   If you haven't yet changed your lights to LED lightbulbs, you'll need to do so before powering your lights the solar way. This will reduce the size of the solar system you'll need to power your home.
    
2. Space considerations
   
   Your solar panels will go on the roof, but you'll need space in your home to store the batteries. The amount of space you'll need will depend on how many batteries you need, so ensure that you've liaised with an industry expert about the space required.
    
3. Ongoing maintenance
   
   Given that they are exposed to the elements, your solar panels will get dirty and will need to be cleaned from time to time. It's also worth noting that solar panels will need to be replaced every 25 to 40 years, and that lithium batteries are likely to need to be replaced approximately every eight to 10 years.
    
4. Backup
   
   Solar power relies on the sun, and when you get a week's worth of back-to-back rainy days, you're going to need a backup - which will typically mean a generator and fuel. If going off the grid altogether does not seem feasible for you, consider the option of a hybrid system.

Going off the grid or lessening your reliance on Eskom's power is a serious commitment, but one that can ultimately make life easier. Speak to the team at Jawitz Properties about minimising your power dependence and other ways to enhance the value of your property.