Winter is coming – time to see the light

Load-shedding continues to be a persistent challenge in South Africa, causing disruptions to businesses and millions of citizens’ daily lives. As the country enters the winter season, the likelihood of even higher stages of power cuts increases. To add to the stress, electricity prices are also on the rise, further straining consumers’ finances. However, at STS, we are committed to empowering community schemes with Efficient Energy Solutions to mitigate the effects of load-shedding and rising electricity prices.

Energy security for community schemes

By now we are all aware that solar power is an excellent option for community schemes to reduce their dependence on the grid and save on electricity costs. However, solar power alone is not enough to provide electricity during load-shedding.

That’s where Battery Backup Solutions come in. By installing battery energy storage systems, community schemes can take the power into their own hands. Excess solar energy can be stored during the day and used to power homes during outages. Our battery installations are designed to provide up to stage 4 load-shedding protection, giving residents peace of mind and an uninterrupted power supply.

Our solar power with battery backup solutions are not only reliable and sustainable, but they can also reduce electricity costs. Community schemes can reduce their dependence on Eskom and avoid rising electricity tariffs by generating their own electricity. Tariff arbitrage involves charging batteries during off-peak periods when electricity tariffs are lower and using the stored energy during peak periods when tariffs are higher. Peak shaving, on the other hand, involves reducing the electricity demand during peak periods, thereby reducing electricity costs. The battery energy storage system is a practical solution for load-shedding, empowering community schemes to take back control of their electricity needs.

In addition, our installations are designed to be scalable, allowing for future expansion and growth. This flexibility means that community schemes can start small and scale their installations as their energy needs grow.

But what about the costs?

Scheme executives and body corporates may be hesitant to pursue solar power due to perceived costs associated with buying, installing and maintaining solar panels and energy storage units. The associated administrative hassle to approve and execute the project is another potential turn-off.

However, as part of our innovative solutions that help communities thrive, we can help your scheme switch to solar and backup power with minimal hassle. There are different ways of acquiring a solar system. Let’s look at some of the options we can help you with:

Buying the system outright

If your community scheme has enough funds available, you can buy and install the solar equipment yourself. We can connect you with one of our reliable solar partners who can help you design and install a customised system that suits your space and needs.

However, buying the system upfront can be expensive and might not be feasible for many community schemes. That’s why we also offer an alternative way to finance your solar system: our Project Funding Solution. This allows you to pay for the system and its installation over time, with flexible repayment terms and no hidden fees. The only cost would be the interest rate that applies.

Keep in mind that if you own the system, you will also be responsible for its insurance, monitoring and maintenance. You might also need to upgrade the equipment in the future, as solar technology evolves.

Signing an Electricity Service Supply Agreement (ESSA)

Another option we provide is fully-funded Efficient Energy Solutions in partnership with Bright Light. This means that you don’t have to pay anything upfront or worry about the installation, insurance, maintenance or monitoring of the system. We take care of everything for you. You only pay for the electricity you use every month, at a lower rate than Eskom. That’s right – you get all the benefits of solar, without any hassle or risk!

Plus, with an ESSA, you don’t have to worry about outdated technology. We will replace the equipment as needed, ensuring that you have the most efficient system possible.

As with all our solutions, we recommend a tailor-made approach for the specific needs of your community scheme. Our efficient energy specialists will conduct a feasibility study and present an optimal solar solution based on your community scheme’s energy requirements.

Empowering community schemes for a brighter future

We believe that we can make a significant impact on the energy landscape in South Africa with our efficient energy solutions.

Is your community scheme ready to gain energy security and improve the quality of life of all residents?