Loadshedding Battery Backup Solutions

A common request that we get from clients is that they want to go “off-grid”. What these clients often don’t realize is that going off-grid means having absolutely no grid connection. Often what they are looking for is, in fact, increased grid-independence. Installing a battery backup system with the use of solar energy and a battery for times of loadshedding will bring you some grid-independence as you will be less affected by events of loadshedding on the grid. An inverter is a necessary component of this system, as it will convert the DC power from the solar panels into AC power that can be used by your appliances. To find out more about going off-grid and grid-independence go to our off-grid solar PV options. Having a backup system in place is important in case of loadshedding power outages.

To find out more about going off-grid and grid-independence go to our off-grid solar PV.

Get in touch with us via email for guidance in finding the best battery backup system for your needs. We will ask you for a list of all the equipment or loads you would like powered during loadshedding and for a photo of your distribution board if you are thinking of going for a grid-connected solar system. A backup system, which includes an inverter, is a great way to ensure that you have power even during a loadshedding power outage.

If you would like an estimate on a solar installation you can use our Solar Calculator here.

The Lithium-ion batteries in our solar battery backup systems are capable of being recharged within two hours. The Lead-acid batteries will take a little longer to recharge fully from empty, around three hours. This means that up to level 4 loadshedding, the solar batteries will be able to recharge sufficiently between loadshedding periods. Above level 4 loadshedding, you may need to add some battery capacity to the system, such as an additional solar battery. Having a backup battery system in place, which includes an inverter, means that you won’t have to worry about the batteries not being fully charged during a loadshedding power outage.

These solutions are not accepted for solar integration in the City of Cape Town municipality. If you require a system that has the potential of including solar panels in the future then please get in touch with us for a solar quote. Having the ability to add solar panels to a backup system in the future, which includes an inverter, can be a great option for those looking to increase their energy independence during loadshedding periods.

If you would like to learn more about the difference in solar panels, click here.

When it comes to the batteries in a battery backup system, Lithium-ion batteries are recommended over Lead-acid (or deep cycle AGM) batteries. Although Lithium-ion batteries cost more than Lead-Acid batteries initially, the lifespan of a Lithium-ion is around 10 years, while a Lead-Acid has a lifespan of around three years, with some only lasting two years. This means you will have to replace and buy your Lead-acid batteries every two to three years.

Over the estimated 10-year life-cycle of the Lithium-ion battery (and they usually last longer than this), you would have to replace the Lead-acid batteries at least three additional times before replacing the Lithium-ion battery once. As a result, Lithium-ion batteries work out to be cheaper when considered over a 10-year period, not to mention the hassle of having to replace the Lead-Acid batteries so often. But, if you are only looking for a short-term solution, then Lead-Acid batteries could be a good choice for you.

If you are unsure whether your building has single or three-phase electricity, you can send us a photo of your building distribution board (DB) via email.

If you want to read our step by step guide for getting started with Solar, click here.