As South Africans, we’ve adapted to many situations with resilience and creativity, and the frequent power outages, or ‘loadshedding’, are no exception. Over the years, loadshedding has become a significant issue affecting homes and businesses across the country.
As a result, the search for reliable alternative power solutions has become a priority for many. Enter the world of inverter systems – energy solutions that not only provide a reliable backup during power cuts but are also environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run.
It is no secret that loadshedding in South Africa has sparked an increase in demand for reliable and efficient home backup power systems. Amidst this clamour, inverters have emerged as a crucial component due to their vital role in converting DC electricity (from sunlight or batteries) into AC electricity that can power our appliances.
As you traverse the world of inverters, keep in mind their complexity and potential compatibility issues when considering upgrades. Understanding the type of backup system you desire is an important first step. A popular choice for most households involves a blend of photovoltaic solar and battery backup to generate and store affordable electricity that remains accessible during power outages.
Solar Systems to Consider
There are three types of solar power systems to consider:
1. Grid-tied: Solar power and grid run concurrently, with solar being consumed first. Most affordable inverters supporting this type can’t feed electricity back into the grid, while some also necessitate a live grid connection to function.
2. Off-grid: These systems are designed to operate without grid power but can also be connected to the grid. They switch over to the grid when solar or battery capacity is insufficient. Power cannot be fed back into the grid.
3. Hybrid: These systems use an inverter capable of utilising both solar and grid electricity as required. They can function as either grid-tied or off-grid.
Now, let’s delve into the world of hybrid off-grid versus hybrid on-grid inverters:
Hybrid Off-Grid Inverters
Affordable and often found in power trolleys, these inverters can only supply solar or stored battery power when they can handle the entire load. During peak usage periods when your home’s demand might exceed your inverter, solar, or battery capacity, you’ll need to rely on grid power.
Hybrid On-Grid Inverters
In contrast, on-grid hybrid inverters, like those from Deye, Sunsynk, and Victron, can use solar and grid power simultaneously. This blending process maximises all available resources. Additionally, these inverters can be stacked for higher total output.
Popular inverter brands recommended by reputable solar installers include Axpert, Deye, Growatt, LuxPower, SunSynk, and Victron. Several brands such as Kodak, Magneto, Mecer, and RTC, rebadge Axpert inverters, and the same components from Deye and SunSynk inverters.
Top Inverter Systems
Here are some of the top inverter systems that are making significant strides in helping South Africans beat loadshedding:
1. Tesla Powerwall 2
With its high-tech features, long lifespan, and robust storage capacity, the Tesla Powerwall 2 is one of the leading options available. It boasts a whopping 13.5 kWh capacity, capable of powering a small household for a day. Coupled with solar panels, the Powerwall 2 turns into a sustainable energy source that doesn’t just keep the lights on during power cuts, but also reduces reliance on the national grid and lowers energy bills.
2. Mercer Mecer Axpert Off-grid Inverter
The Mecer Axpert Off-grid Inverter is a popular choice among South Africans due to its affordability and reliability. Available in various sizes, ranging from 1kVA to 5kVA, it can be tailored to meet your household or business needs. This hybrid inverter allows seamless switching from grid to battery power during a blackout, ensuring a steady power supply to your essential devices.
3. Victron Energy Systems
Victron Energy’s range of inverters, particularly the MultiPlus and Quattro series, are praised for their excellent efficiency and flexibility. These inverters can be parallel or three-phase linked, which is particularly helpful for more extensive systems or commercial properties. Victron’s inverters also come with an intelligent software option, enabling users to monitor energy consumption and manage their system effectively.
4. SMA Sunny Island Inverter
The SMA Sunny Island Inverter is another outstanding performer in the inverter world, especially for large households and businesses. It boasts high efficiency, reliable power supply, and straightforward integration with renewable energy sources. Its “AC Coupling” feature ensures the optimum use of solar power and can be combined with other Sunny Island inverters to create a more powerful, unified system.
5. GoodWe EM Series Inverter
The GoodWe EM Series is a versatile hybrid inverter system that supports both on-grid and off-grid functionalities. It integrates effectively with solar panel systems to store excess energy, reducing the reliance on the grid and ensuring power is available during loadshedding. It comes with an energy management function, providing an in-depth insight into usage patterns and helping users optimise their consumption.
It’s essential to remember that the efficiency of these inverter systems is not solely dependent on the inverter. The battery storage system, integration with renewable energy sources, and the overall setup of the system also play a vital role. Therefore, proper consultation and professional installation are key when choosing and setting up an inverter system.
In the face of ongoing loadshedding, the investment in a reliable inverter system is not just a response to an immediate challenge. It’s a step towards a sustainable future, where South Africans can enjoy consistent power while contributing positively to the environment.