Solar technology is one of the technologies that is widely used to mitigate climate change. It impacts South Africa by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Very few companies in South Africa can produce the solar technology system. However, ARTsolar is one of the major companies that produces solar system technologies in South Africa. The price of ART Solar solar varies with the capacity of the solar system. In South Africa, the average cost of a home solar system can vary between R60,000.00 and R250,000.00 or more, depending on the system’s size and components. Meanwhile, the grid-tied and off-grid systems cost R30,000.00 to R300,000.00 and R150,000.00 and R350,000.00 respectively. Solar technology uses sunlight to generate electricity and heat, which can be used for cooking, lighting, heat, etc.
The South African government is increasingly supporting solar technologies across the country. South Africa experiences high solar radiation levels, with average daily solar radiation between 4,5 kWh and 6,5 kWh per square meter. Solar radiation, with some regional variations, is relatively predictable and well-distributed throughout the country. Currently, solar technology in South Africa is robust, with numerous solar farms and rooftop installations contributing to the country’s renewable energy mix. The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program (REIPPPP) has been instrumental in driving solar energy projects and attracting investments into the sector. Solar power helps South Africa reduce dependency on traditional fossil fuels, thus lowering greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. Solar technology positively affects greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in South Africa by reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels.
One of the major challenges facing solar technology development in South Africa is the inconsistency of sunlight across the country. Cloud cover and changing weather patterns normally affect the efficiency of solar panels, leading to fluctuations in energy production. The high installation costs can also prohibit many individuals and businesses from adopting solar technology despite the long-term cost savings.
This Post was submitted by Climate Scorecard South Africa Country Manager Rugare Zhou.
References
- https://powernsun.co.za/what-is-the-future-of-solar-in-south-africa/
- https://solar.huawei.com/za/blog/za/2023/solar-system-price#:~:text=How%20Much%20Does%20a%20Solar,to%20R250%2C000.00%20or%20more.
- Wright, J., May 2022, Technological developments to address climate change in South Africa and their potential economic impacts. Authorised for distribution by Konstantin Makrelov
- South Africa’s Climate Change Technology Needs Assessment, Synthesis Report, September 2007
- https://www.visualcapitalist.com/countries-by-solar-power-ranking/#:~:text=With%20an%20average%20annual%20growth,and%20Republicans%20Feel%20on%20Energy