In July 2024, AWPower published research comparing the cost of grid electricity versus self-generation from rooftop solar. We’ve updated the numbers, and the gap is now undeniable:
Grid-supplied electricity (City of Cape Town): R3.73/kWh
Rooftop solar PV: R1.56/kWh
That’s more than 50% cheaper to generate your own power.
Why Businesses Are Choosing Solar
For years, solar investment surged during load shedding peaks, but smart businesses aren’t waiting for the next blackout. They’re moving because the financial case is stronger than ever:
- Economical self-generation: Since 2021, solar has been cheaper than buying from utilities.
- In a recent article, MyBroadband concluded that Everyone should be paying 80% less for electricity in South Africa.
- Financing made easy: With Nedbank and ooba, many clients see monthly savings cover their instalments.
- Section 12B advantage: Write off the full cost of solar in year one and slash your tax bill.
- Future-ready assets: From higher property value to EV charging, solar makes your infrastructure work harder – and saves you money.
- Export opportunities: Oversized systems can earn credits from surplus summer generation.
The Risks of Waiting
Solar remains a clear win, but there are pressures ahead:
- China’s rebate cut may push PV module prices up by 20% by year-end.
- Tariffs are climbing faster – annual increases of 12-18% are the new normal.
- Municipal hurdles still slow down export approvals for many.
The bottom line: grid costs will keep climbing, while the cost of waiting on solar will only rise.
A Strategic Decision
Going solar is not a knee-jerk reaction to load shedding. This is a strategic move that locks in lower costs, drives sustainability, and safeguards your business against a volatile energy market.
At AWPower, we’ve helped more than 500 clients make that shift. Whether you’re starting small or scaling big, our engineers design systems to maximise your ROI.
It’s time to own your energy future.
Speak to us today about your options.
See this case study from one of our recent installations, and how much this apartment block has saved since going solar: