With rising electricity tariffs and regular loadshedding, more South Africans are looking to solar power as the means to taking back control of their energy use. The main hindrance is the cost. Full solar systems are extremely expensive upfront, but the good news is that you don’t have to go all in at once.  

You can start small, build up gradually, and still see real savings. 

Here’s what you need to know before you decide to flip the switch. 

Why Solar Power Is Worth Considering  

Well, to cut to the chase, solar power gives you more energy independence, protection against rising electricity costs, access to backup power during outages, and long-term savings on your electricity bill. 

And listen, even a basic system can reduce your monthly reliance on the grid – which is great news if you’re on a time-of-use or peak tariff. 

The True Cost Of Solar 

Prices depend on your electricity usage, battery size, and solar panel quality, so there are no one-size-fits-all costs we can give you that will be exactly correct for your needs.  

What we can do, is provide you with some ballpark figures to give you an idea. That said, it’s important that you shop around and compare quotes from reputable providers so that you find the best price for the best product. Better yet, have an installer assess your current needs and future goals.  

Type of Setup	What It Covers	Estimated Cost Range
Entry-Level Backup System	Inverter + battery (no solar panels)	R20,000 to R40,000
Small Hybrid System	Inverter, battery + 2–4 solar panels	R50,000 to R90,000
Full Off-Grid Solar System	Powers most or all of your home independently	R120,000 to R300,000+

Not Ready To Go Big?  

You don’t need to go completely off-grid to start saving. You can absolutely ease into this investment. A good place to start is with a solar geyser, because your geyser is one of the biggest electricity consumers in a home, and a solar version can save 25–40% on your bill. 

The next step is to look at installing a backup power system. While an inverter and battery combo won’t save electricity, it will keep the lights (and WiFi) on during loadshedding. From there on, you can add panels slowly. Many solar power systems are designed to be expanded over time, so you can add more panels and storage as your budget allows. 

What To Watch Out For 

Before you commit, compare at least three quotes, because prices and warranties vary. You should also check for South African-based warranties and service, because while imported systems might be cheaper, they can be harder to maintain. 

Speaking of looking local, make sure that you use local, certified installers. A bad install can void warranties or pose a fire risk. Lastly… ask about insurance. Some insurers require you to specify solar components separately on your policy. 

Don’t Forget About Financing 

If you don’t have the upfront cash, some banks and solar providers offer financial solutions, including green loans, rent-to-own solar power packages, and home loan extensions with better interest rates for solar upgrades. 

As you explore your financial options, keep in mind that the monthly saving needs to justify the repayments. 

Feeling Informed? 

Look, the sun is not going anywhere, so your plan to go solar doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing investment. With smart planning and a phased approach, you can reduce your reliance on Eskom and invest in a more energy-secure future – without blowing your budget. 

We trust that this information will help you take your next step along your solar journey.  

If you’re looking for more practical advice on energy efficiency or want to explore the cost of solar, then please take a few minutes to explore AA Inform.