Capetonians Turn to Solar PV and Battery Systems in Response to Load-Shedding

by
1 min read
s o

As load-shedding persists, many Capetonians are embracing solar PV and battery systems as a way to circumvent power outages caused by Eskom. To assist with the increased demand, the City of Cape Town plans to simplify the solar PV authorization process and launch an intuitive online portal in the near future.

Streamlining Solar PV Authorization

Starting on October 1, 2023, the application turnaround time for small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) systems is expected to decrease dramatically, thanks to the new City-approved inverter requirement and professional sign-off for all SSEG systems. The objective of this initiative is to tackle the issue of fly-by-night operators offering subpar systems or inadequate wiring, which contributes to extended power outages during load-shedding recovery periods.

Addressing Delays in the Authorization Process

According to the Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, Councillor Beverley van Reenen, the rise in solar PV and battery system installations has resulted in delays in the authorization process due to the high volume of applications and various system types. Consequently, the City is working to speed up the approval process by employing additional personnel and creating the forthcoming online application portal. So far, nearly 6,000 systems have been authorized by the City.

Ensuring Safety and Efficiency

The new regulations, which will be implemented on October 1, require all grid-tied systems to use City-approved inverters with professional sign-off. These measures will not only reduce the authorization time but also improve safety, reduce the risk of area outages caused by subpar systems connected to the grid, and safeguard homeowners from deceitful operators.

Gratitude Toward Industry Stakeholders

Councillor Van Reenen expressed gratitude toward industry stakeholders who have been advocating for safe and legal systems and assured them of the City’s support during this transition. Faster and safer authorizations will benefit customers by enabling them to safeguard themselves from load-shedding while allowing installers to effectively manage stock and cash flow without getting bogged down in paperwork.

Enhancing the Application Process

The City has taken the following steps to speed up and secure the application process:

  • All SSEG systems must use a City-approved inverter and receive professional sign-off.
  • Standby and off-grid system applications will no longer be accepted. Priority will be given to grid-tied systems using City-approved inverters.

With these measures in place, Capetonians can expect a more efficient and reliable solar PV authorization process. This will enable them to take advantage of clean energy solutions and mitigate the impact of load-shedding on their daily lives.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all
s o
Previous Story

South Africa and Vietnam: A Strong and Enduring Relationship

n a
Next Story

Embracing South Africa’s Natural and Cultural Heritage: National Parks Week

Latest from Blog

early childhood education toy libraries

Cape Town’s Transformative Toy Libraries: Revolutionizing Early Childhood Development

Cape Town’s toy libraries are changing how young children learn by creating fun and exciting places to play and grow. With 24 vibrant libraries, kids can explore new stories and play with educational toys that help them develop important skills. Educators also benefit, gaining access to helpful resources that enhance teaching methods. This initiative not only supports children’s growth but also encourages a love for learning that can last a lifetime. As these libraries thrive, they inspire communities everywhere to embrace the joy of learning through play.

wastewater management urban sustainability

Innovative Urban Water Management: Embracing Wastewater Package Plants

Wastewater package plants are small, smart facilities that help cities manage dirty water in a cleaner way. They are easy to install and can be placed where big treatment plants can’t go, making them super useful for crowded urban areas. Recently, a workshop brought together many people to learn how to set up and run these plants, highlighting their importance for public health and the environment. By using these innovative systems, cities can boost their economies while making sure they take care of our precious water resources.

illegal mining south africa

Confronting Illegal Mining in South Africa: A Complex Battle

South Africa is fighting against illegal mining with a strong team of police, soldiers, and private security. They’ve recently targeted a large group of about 6,500 illegal miners in Ekurhuleni, where hidden tunnels and makeshift homes showed the extent of this underground world. While these operations can push miners away temporarily, true solutions need to address the economic struggles that drive people to these risky jobs. The goal is to create lasting change that not only protects the environment but also offers communities new opportunities for a better life.

fireworks policy public safety

Balancing Tradition and Safety: Cape Town’s Fireworks Policy

Cape Town is getting ready for exciting celebrations like Diwali and Guy Fawkes Night, but there are important rules about fireworks! To keep everyone safe, people must get permission from the police and have their event checked by the Fire and Rescue Service. While many love the colorful displays, some worry about noise and the danger to pets and wildlife. As the city balances fun traditions with safety, it’s clear that thoughtful celebrations can light up the sky without causing chaos below.