News Solar | Education

This is an excellent question. If you have a solar system, you would definitely want to know your return on the investment. In this quick article, we will share with you the tools needed to calculate the amount of power your panels output. We will also mention some of the criteria that may affect solar panel efficiency. What is the Standard Test Condition Rating? When choosing a solar panel, you would have referred to the Standard Test Condition (STC) rating to ensure the panel can generate the required amount of energy. The STC rating is indicated by a number listed on the back of the panel. ...

If you’re considering a solar installation for your home or facility, you may want to consider learning about measuring solar radiation. Why is this important? Because the design of your solar system (type and quantity of PV panels, etc.) is affected by the amount of sunlight present in the location of your installation at a given time. In this article, we take a look at solar radiation, global solar radiation and the methods to measure solar radiation.  What is solar radiation? Solar radiation is often defined as the energy reaching the earth from the sun. A large part of this is visible...

We're wrapping up our series on Net Metering by taking a closer look at Kwa-Zulu Natal. What progress has been made in integrating Small-Scale Electricity Generation (SSEG) into the local electricity network? Read our article to find out more.  Did you miss out on previous articles in our Net Metering series? Click below to catch up now: Part One - what is net metering, how does it work and what are its benefits? Read More >>

In our NEW series, we’re unpacking net metering. Part One outlines what net metering is, how it works and its benefits.   In Part Two, we discuss the device used in net metering... Watch this space to catch the full series! The Device used in Net Metering A four-quadrant meter is used to record energy consumption and send readings electronically to the supplier. It is used when there is an alternative source of electricity like solar, wind or biomass that is install...

The ever rising cost of electricity coupled with the implementation of Load Shedding in South Africa endorses the need of alternative solutions to power up your home or business... Is it possible for these alternative solutions to pay you back whilst saving you money and reducing downtime? In this NEW series, we introduce you to the concept of net metering. This initial article discusses what net metering is, describes how it works and outlines its benefits.  Follow the series as we unfold more about the device used in metering, and where KwaZulu-Natal currently stands with regards t...

Roof leaks, potential fire hazards, void warranties, and lack of after-sales service… These are common problems which you could encounter if you haven’t chosen your solar installer wisely. The good news is that there certainly isn’t a lack of experienced solar installers with a well-trained crew. You just need to know what to look for! In this quick article, we’re sharing a few tips which you should bear in mind before enlisting a solar service provider. Tip 1: Expertise is key Choose an installer with proven expertise in installing solar energy systems. There are a few bodies that offer ...

Solar technology has evolved dramatically over the past twenty years – the cost of PV systems has decreased, efficiency has increased, and reliability has undoubtedly improved. However, despite the abundance of information on the subject, what you think you know about solar may not necessarily be the truth. In this NEW article, we’re busting 8 of the most common solar myths…   Myth 1 – My solar system will provide power during load shedding Grid-tied solar systems...

Solar makes sense. For us at Magnet, this is obvious. If we had our way, every last rooftop in the country would be outfitted with solar. However, the reality of the situation is that solar doesn’t make sense for everyone. The ultimate question is whether the advantages of solar power outweigh the disadvantages. If you‘re on the fence about installing a solar solution for your home or business, then give our article a quick read. We’re aiming to give an honest assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of solar to help y...

If you’re in the market for a UPS, read our quick article to learn UPS basics, the type of protection they offer, and what important considerations you should keep front of mind when selecting a UPS… What is a UPS? An uninterruptible power supply or uninterruptible power source (UPS) is a device that: 1. Provides back-up power when utility power fails, either long enough for critical equipment to shut down gracefully so that no data is lost, or long enough to keep required loads operational until a generator comes online. 2. Conditions incoming power so that all-too-common sags and surges...

Solar Roof Mounts or Ground Mounts – which is the best option for you? So you’ve done your due diligence and chosen the ideal PV system… Now it’s time to consider which mounting method is the best option for your application, budget and energy needs. In this article, we’re outlining the two types of mounting options – roof mount and ground mount racking systems. See how they compare and decide which option is most suitable for you! What is a mount? It is a foundation that holds your solar system in place. There are typica...

  Is your roof suitable for solar panels?  Solar has been on your mind for a while, and you're finally ready to invest in a system... But, have you considered whether or not your roof is suitable for panels? Believe it or not, but not all roofs are ideal for solar. There is much to consider before installing a solar system – chief among these is your roof. Considerations to keep front of mind include: Shade coverage Panels are powered through light, so you definitely do not want any shade on the section of the roof where the panels will be installed.   The complexit...

If you’re serious about running an efficient household or commercial property, then it’s imperative to select the right solar panels. Panels differ in manufacturing quality and output, and for most, the purchase decision hinges on finding a good balance between affordability and quality. Panels are not all created equal, making the choice of brand vital. Consider turning to tier 1 solar panel manufacturers first. Tier 1 solar panel manufacturers are defined as those that: • Have been producing solar panels for 5 years or more • Are either publicly listed on a stock exchange or have a strong an...

If you’re considering investing in a solar system, the best place to start is by educating yourself... In this article, we’re giving you a basic understanding of the types of solar panels. What is a solar panel? A ‘solar panel’ is a commonly used term for a Photovoltaic (PV) module. It is an assembly of PV cells mounted or housed in a framework for installation. Inside this framework is a silicone cell protected by a thick and clear sheet of protective glass. A collection of PV modules is called a PV or solar panel, and a sy...

If you’re looking into investing in a solar system, first consider this important question… How will you fund the installation? In this article, we’re discussing the different financial models to fund solar systems.   There are 3 solar funding models in the market: 1. Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) 2. Lease 3. Outright purchase Obviously models do vary, but the fundamentals are generally the same. Familiarise yourself with the pro’s and con’s we’re highlighting in each option, and decide which is the most suitable ...

The inverter is a fundamental part of every solar or back-up power installation. Hence, understanding this piece of equipment is important in ensuring you choose the right inverter for your application. In this article, we’re taking you into the world of inverters - giving you a basic understanding of what inverters are, and describing the different types of inverters. Understanding inverters Before discussing what inverters are, it is important to first understand that there are two types of electricity – alternating curren...

Have you considered a solar energy solution for your business? Your business is at the mercy of Eskom – that’s not news. But there is a solution that’s become too appealing to ignore… Solar Energy. What makes the switch to solar even more viable, is the fact that South African businesses can qualify for a solar energy tax break. Use solar energy tax breaks to boost your returns! Section 12B of the Income Tax Act (No 58 of 1962) was amended in 2016 in order to make an allowance for the depreciation of specific solar installa...

  If you’re considering a solar or back-up power solution for your home or facility, important factors to bear in mind are battery types and selection thereof. In this new series, we’ll be giving you a basic understanding of the various types of batteries which could be used in solar and back-up power systems. We'll also be sharing some advice on how to choose the right battery for your system, and much more. Don't miss out, subscribe to our newsletters now! Types of batteries Batteries enable you to stor...

  In the first article of this series, we outlined the differences between the main types of batteries – Lead Acid and Lithium-ion: 1. Lead Acid This type of battery has been used for solar...

We’re wrapping up our Solar Mistakes series by discussing the 7th rookie error – which is probably the most important one yet! Did you catch previous episodes in the series? Click below to catch up on our articles and videos now! Mistake 1 | Not assessing where you can become more energy efficient before installing PV Read More >>