Warning to South African homeowners who want to install rooftop solar

Demand for rooftop solar is expected to grow in 2025, but while homeowners are dealing with registration and penalty fees imposed by Eskom, they now also have to watch out for a rise in dodgy installers.

In 2024, off-grid generation registered with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) climbed by 67% after more than doubling in 2023 and increasing almost ninefold in 2022.

The data from Nersa further shows that of the registered units, two-thirds of the off-grid capacity was solar generation.

Absa’s latest Homeowner Sentiment Index (HSI) also noted the rise and importance of alternative power to homeowners in South Africa.

The HSI is a barometer of property consumer confidence across six key metrics in the country’s housing market.

According to the report, the appetite for investing in alternative power solutions (APS) has declined after almost 10 months of stable power supply.

However, Absa added that reducing electricity costs and the longevity of alternative power supplies remain the most important considerations for homeowners.

Of the homeowners surveyed by the bank, 43% preferred hybrid APS systems, 35% planned to go off-grid, and 29% intended to install grid-tied systems.

The demand for solar systems and other alternative energy is evident in the demand for APS systems, predominantly solar, which increased by 70% year-on-year as of the end of 2024.

Although the demand for solar has declined compared to previous years, experts have noted that the prices of such systems are reducing.

Coupled with massive double-digit tariff hikes by Eskom, demand for solar is expected to rebound in 2025.

Following the solar boom in 2023, Eskom started intensifying awareness campaigns around these installations, warning customers to register their generators and ensure they are up to code.

Eskom highlighted that this was necessary to ensure the safety of these systems and to protect the national grid.

To register their systems, homeowners must hire a qualified engineer or technologist to certify compliance.

Eskom advises that this process should ideally be completed before installing solar panels to avoid potential non-compliance issues.

However, homeowners must still cover inspection costs and any necessary upgrades, such as installing smart meters.

If homeowners do not register by March 2026, they could face penalties, which include fines of over R6,000.

More trouble for South Africans wanting solar

For those looking into installing solar systems, Standard Bank has warned of reports of faulty equipment and dangerous installations causing damage to homes and businesses.

The warning follows concerns the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud (CGSO) and insurers about the growing number of unqualified installers leaving customers with subpar or non-compliant solar solutions.

Hardy Ncube, Head of Personal Products at Standard Bank Insurance, stressed the importance of selecting reputable providers to avoid defective designs, poor workmanship, and financial losses due to uncovered insurance claims.

“It’s important to note that, as with other areas in the home, insurers do not cover faulty equipment, defective design, or non-compliant installation, including damage to the home resulting from such,” said Ncube.

Standard Bank has advised homeowners to check installer credentials, confirm regulatory compliance, and obtain necessary documentation.

“The first point to consider is whether the solar installer is qualified, experienced, and reputable,” said Ncube, adding that consumers should research online reviews and verify an installer’s qualifications before proceeding.

He added that a compliant installation should include an invoice detailing the system’s components, an Electrical Certificate of Compliance, municipal approval (if required), and sometimes a structural engineer’s certificate to confirm the roof’s ability to support the panels.

Ncube further explained that a reputable installer should conduct a site visit before providing a final quotation and offer a workmanship warranty.

In response to the rise in substandard installations, the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) has introduced the PV Green Card.

This card provides accreditation to help consumers differentiate between trained professionals and unqualified operators.

Ncube also advised that it is always a good idea to ask anyone doing work on a property to provide proof of appropriate insurance to cover any damage that may take place.

He said by taking these precautions, homeowners can ensure they invest in a safe and reliable solar solution while also securing proper insurance coverage.