What do you need to know before going solar? Solar power is now widely used to power residential homes, offices, factories, and water pumping sources, among many other applications. Solar products have also globally dropped in prices, making them a viable and environmentally friendly power source.

 
The main factors to consider before you acquire a solar-powered solution are:

1. Understand Your Power consumption

This will involve listing down your electrical appliances and the wattage that each item consumes. Most of these items already have labeling showing the power rating, usually at the back. For heavy power consumers, this is done via an energy meter that logs the power consumption. At Plexus energy, we provide our clients with an easy-to-use template to ease this exercise.

2. Understand when you consume your power

The second critical issue to asses is when the power is consumed and for how long per day. This information is useful to determine if the storage of power is required; as you know, that solar is not produced evenly throughout the day and is also not available at night.

3. Determine your reason for switching to solar

Do you already have another power source, and the costs are too high? Is your existing supply unreliable, resulting in certain times of the day you have no power supply? Are you using a power source that is hazardous to the environment, and do you want to adopt a clean power source? Are you in a location where you don’t have another power source?

These reasons are important to communicate with your solar supplier as they guide the design of the solar system.

4. Do you have space to generate solar power?

To generate solar power, you need roof space or ground space where the solar panels can be mounted. The space also has to be free of shading for maximum power generation. Ideally, the space should be well-oriented to maximum sunlight during the day.

In certain regions, you may require local authority permits to install solar panels. There are innovative options like car-ports provide roof alternatives.

5. What is your budget for the Solar Investment?

This is an important point to mention to the solar provider, as they can provide options to match your needs. Some of the options include load separation, where you can power critical items on solar while others remain on alternative sources. There are financing options available that can help cater to the high upfront cost.

6. Type of Equipment to use

Nowadays, with a lot of online information, choosing the right solar panels, inverters, and/or batteries can be confusing. Ask your solar provider to guide you on the various components’ warranty terms and their useful life. It is also important to understand the type of maintenance the equipment will need and how often, as this will impact the performance of the solar system.

Have you found a reason to go solar?

Whatever your reasons for switching to solar, consider the above six factors, as they will help you make the right decision.

Would you want to get a FREE assessment of your solar needs, get in touch with me at info@plexus-energy.co.ke

Edward Kinyanjui,

Founder Plexus Energy Limited.