DIY Solar

Pros and Cons

Thinking about diving into the world of solar power by doing it yourself? It’s definitely a tempting idea. After all, who doesn’t want to save some cash and be a bit greener at the same time?

But before you take out the toolkit and start installing panels on your roof, let’s talk about the good, the bad, and the potentially risky DIY solar power solutions.

Are You Considering a DIY Solar System?

Solar power is booming, and for good reason. It’s clean, it’s renewable, and it can save you a bundle on your energy bills.

DIY solar power takes that idea to the next level by letting you be the master of your own energy destiny.

But is it really as easy – or as safe – as it sounds?

 

Pro's and Con's of DIY Solar Systems
Pro's of DIY solar

Remember:

You will need a CoC

As the property owner, you are responsible for the safety of the electrical installation on your property in terms of the OHS Act. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Act 85 of 1993 (OHS Act), the owners of a premise where electricity is consumed need to be in possession of a valid Certificate of Compliance.

Without a valid electrical CoC, you will find it difficult to prove that you have taken reasonable precautions should anything go wrongInsurance companies might not pay out for damages; and if someone is injured or dies as a result of the installation, you could be held liable as the property owner.

Guide to Apply for CoC.

Pros of DIY Solar Power Solutions:

Cost Savings

Let’s face it, one of the biggest draws of DIY solar is the money you can save. By skipping the installation fees and doing the work yourself, you could shave thousands off the cost of going solar.

Customization

With a DIY setup, you get to call the shots. Want more panels? Less? Batteries for backup power? It’s all up to you, which means you can design a system that fits your needs and your budget.

Learning Experience

There’s something satisfying about learning new skills and taking on a challenge. DIY solar gives you the chance to get hands-on with some pretty cool tech, and hey, you might just discover a new passion along the way.

Sense of Accomplishment

Knowing that you’re reducing your carbon footprint and generating your own clean energy? That’s pretty darn cool. DIY solar lets you take control of your energy future and feel good about doing your part for the planet.

Do DIY Installations require an SSEG?

Small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) means making electricity in places like homes, shops, or factories, where it’s used.

You need permission from the Municipality if you want to install a system like rooftop solar panels.

Apply here for SSEG Solar PV applications below 1000kVA (i.e. small-scale solar PV). 

Understand the Application Process.

Cons of DIY Solar Power Solutions

It's Complicated

Solar installations aren’t exactly beginner-friendly. There’s a lot of technical stuff to get right, and if you mess up, it could end up costing you big time – both in terms of money and safety.

Risk of Damage or Injury

Speaking of safety, messing around with electricity is no joke. DIY solar projects come with real risks, from electrical shocks to fire hazards. Without the right know-how, you could be putting yourself and your home in danger.

Limited Warranty Coverage:

Many manufacturers won’t honor their warranties unless your solar gear is installed by the pros. That means if something goes wrong down the line, you could be stuck footing the bill for repairs or replacements.

Performance Anxiety

DIY setups might not perform as well as pro-installed systems. Poor placement, shoddy wiring, or just plain bad luck could leave you with a solar setup that doesn’t live up to its potential.

electrical fires due to poor solar installations

Tips for DIY:

  1. Incorrect wiring could cause a fire
  2. Make sure the roof structure is designed to take the additional weight of any solar panels that are installed on the roof of the building.
  3. Extra precautions need to be taken if the installation is taking place in a high-wind area to ensure the structural integrity of the installation.
  4. Check that the inverter specified is compliant in terms of NRS 097-2-1 and that it can be legally connected to the grid. 

DIY solar power can be a tempting proposition, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re handy with tools and have a solid understanding of electrical systems, you might just pull it off – and save yourself a bundle in the process. But if you’re not confident in your DIY skills or you’re not willing to take on the risks, it might be worth leaving it to the pros.

Whatever you decide, just remember to put safety first and do your homework before you start. Solar power is awesome, but it’s only awesome when it’s done right.