THESE days we joke about what to do with uninterrupted electricity when loadshedding is briefly suspended. But the sad reality is our days are likely to get much darker no matter how fast Eskom’s leadership or the new electricity minister can find a solution to keep on the lights.
It’s widely accepted that we’re nowhere near having days without constant power cuts, which is why many South Africans are seeking affordable solutions to counter the effects of loadshedding.
Although solar energy power systems are cost-effective over the long term, many consumers can’t afford to have it installed now.
So we asked experts to break down the various factors of the main alternatives – inverters, generators and gas – that you need to take into account so you can see what works best for you.
INSURANCE ISSUES
Inverters, generators and portable power stations have to meet certain safety requirements to be sold in South Africa, and if used correctly don’t pose a significant additional risk in terms of fire insurance.
But it’s important that a registered electrician performs the installation if the device is connected to an electrical distribution board.
The electrician must also give you an electrical certificate of compliance, says Vally Padayachee, strategic adviser at the Association of Municipal Electricity Utilities of Southern Africa in Joburg.
“In the event a property is destroyed by a fire caused by a system installed without a certificate, the insurance company has every right to repudiate such a claim,” he warns.
Check with your insurer about their specific requirements as these are constantly changing
