South Africans investing in expensive solar and backup power systems should ensure they insure these products properly.
The severe load-shedding of 2023 has resulted in rising adoption of alternative power supply and storage equipment.

According to Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies senior economist Gaylor Montmasson-Clair, South Africa imported solar panels with roughly 2,200MWp capacity in the first half of 2023.

That is nearly half the nameplate capacity of one of Eskom’s newest power stations — Medupi and Kusile.

In addition to a surge in volumes, the value of these imports rose significantly — from about R5.6 billion in the entire 2022 to R12 billion over the first six months of 2023.

Including inverters and batteries in that tally takes the value up to roughly $2.5 billion (R47 billion), compared to $1.7 billion (R32 billion) in the entire 2022.

​Proper solar and battery backup systems that provide reasonable protection against load-shedding cost tens of thousands of rand.

But fickle electricity supply increases the likelihood of power surges that can damage or permanently destroy the equipment.

In addition, energy experts, security companies, and insurers have warned about a surge in the theft of solar panels in South Africa.

While you can take steps to mitigate against these risks, getting insurance on these products is critical to ensuring your hard-earned money does not go to waste in a worst-case scenario.

However, you also run the danger of getting inappropriate or insufficient cover because navigating the terms and conditions of insurers can be a complex endeavour.

In the sections below, South African short-term insurance company Naked has broken down the main principles to consider when insuring these valuables.
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SAAEA has teamed up with an Occupational Health and Safety service provider to assist installers with training, safety files and more.

​Solar installations are more common in both residential and commercial settings as South Africa welcomes renewable energy sources. While using solar energy has many advantages, it's important to put safety first during installation. Although the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1993
provides the legislative foundation, let's first examine why safety is important for solar systems.

Using the Sun's Energy:
Enable us to generate electricity from sunlight, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and lowering our
carbon footprint. Solar panels capture sunlight and produce clean energy, whether they are installed
on rooftops or in open areas. Since this procedure includes complex electrical work, safety is crucial
to avoid
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Potential risks
include working near electricity, heights, and a variety of tools when installing solar panels. This
combo could be dangerous. Risks include improper tool handling, electrical shocks, and falls from
great heights. These risks are reduced by making sure safety precautions are in place.

Rooftop installations:
Rooftop solar systems for residential buildings are frequent. Rooftop work necessitates climbing,
which increases the risk of falls. Scaffolding, safety harnesses, and training can all help to drastically
lower the risk of accidents. The 1993 Occupational Health and Safety Act places a strong emphasis
on the value of giving employees training and a safe workplace. based on unit requirements and
NQF credits

Wiring and Electrical Risks:
Skill is required to connect solar panels to the electrical infrastructure. Short circuits, fires, or even
electrical shocks can result from faulty wiring. A safe electrical setup is ensured by following the
rules for correct wiring, grounding, and connections; this must be done by an electrician who has
undergone a trade test.

Upkeep and Inspection:
Following installation, routine upkeep and inspections are essential. Panel efficiency and safety can
be impacted by dust, debris, and weather. Regular inspections should be performed by qualified
personnel to spot potential problems early and resolve them.

Business Applications:
Solar installation sizes and complexity might vary in business settings. Heavy equipment, extensive
wiring, and synchronization with the current infrastructure are frequently used in this. These
initiatives require careful attention to safety procedures, appropriate training, and protective
equipment.

Adherence to Regulations:
The Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1993 lays out legal obligations to provide a secure
workplace. These rules must be followed by solar installation businesses in order to protect the
safety of their employees and the general public.

Public Safety:
Solar systems have an effect on the general populace. Panels that were improperly installed could
fall and hurt bystanders or cause property damage. Everyone nearby is kept safe when safety
regulations are followed. Barricading and signs are crucial for communicating the risks that are
involved.

Training and Education:
All workers involved in solar installations must receive the
proper training and education. This covers hand tools and power tools training with various sites,
trade tested electricians, working at heights safety training for working on rooftops, ladders, or
scaffolding. There will always be different hazards to consider. Following a site-specific risk
assessment will ensure legal observance.

Environmental Impact:
Although safety is primarily focused on protecting human
health, it also has an impact on the environment. Accidental damage to nearby ecosystems and
habitats can be avoided by protecting solar installations.
In conclusion, a brighter and cleaner energy future is brought about by the expansion of solar
systems in South Africa. However, a strong commitment to safety must go hand in hand with this
advancement by putting safety precautions first.

For more info......
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