Frequently Asked Questions
11 – Will the panels work on our older roof structure? Can our roof take the additional load?
Solar Panels weigh around 12-14kg/m2 which is typically well within the capacity for roof loads. However, there are some roofs that may be unsuitable to handle additional loading. This is usually not related to age, but more to the design of the roof itself. Before proceeding with an installation, Carbon Zero Solar undertakes a structural assessment by to ensure that the potential installation would safely within the load-bearing capacity of the roof.
12 – I use power at night, how will solar help me?
Despite using energy at night, a solar PV installation, coupled with batteries, could still be a fantastic solution. Night time energy users can make use of PV energy by storing the excess produced during the day in a battery storage system. The batteries will be charged during the day by solar energy, and can then be discharged when the power is required during the evening hours when the energy is required. The batteries can also be cycled for peak demand minimization which will make the financial case even stronger.
13 – Can I use single phase inverter for 3 phase power?
The short answer is yes, it will. Your inverter will only push power into one of your home's three phases, but from your point of view, this will not make a difference; you will receive the same benefits from the inverter as if you had a three-phase inverter.
14 – Can I trade my own RECs?
Yes! It is definitely possible to trade your own RECs. Follow the steps below: Log onto the registry’s website at www.zaREC.co.za, and download and fill out the registration forms. Register your device with the registry and pay the R 16,000 renewable registration fee. After your device has been certified and approved, you can start to submit meter readings. Once the system has generated and accumulated 1MWh of renewable energy, request that a REC be issued against the meter readings. A transaction fee is payable for the verification of the metering data to the registry. Once the REC is issued, make contact with and appoint a trader operating in the REC market to sell the REC into the marketplace or search for a willing buyer to purchase the REC. Always ensure that REC fetches a market-related price. Alternatively, sign the attached letter to allow Carbon Zero Solar to manage and trade your REC on your behalf ensuring we obtain the best possible price for your RECs with the assistance of our pre-approved and selected registered traders and buyers.
15 – What are the cost implications?
There are no payments or registration fees required from the owner of the PV solar, wind or hydro installation. All costs associated with the initial registration, verification, certification and issue of the Renewable Energy Certificates and the trade commission payable when the REC is traded on the open market are carried by Carbon Zero Solar. You share in the net income derived from the sale of the REC.