Frequently Asked Questions
SEA provides an array of workshops encompassing networking engagements, roundtable discussions, and training sessions tailored for municipalities. Depending on the specific project, SEA may extend invitations to municipal officials. These workshops are designed to foster knowledge exchange by engaging with municipalities to better understand their sustainable energy challenges and innovative solutions. This valuable insight is then shared with other municipalities, and, when necessary, these discussions can be elevated for national policy review.
To establish a connection for EG/SSEG/Solar, obtaining approval from your electricity supplier, whether it’s your local municipality or Eskom, the entity responsible for sending your electricity bill, is imperative.
Ensuring a reputable installer handles the system installation is crucial. These installers must hold valid electrician credentials, and it’s advantageous if they have completed the PV GreenCard certification.
The centerpiece of your setup is the inverter, which must adhere to the NRS 097-2-1 standard. You can access a comprehensive list of approved inverters here: Approved Photovoltaic (PV) Inverter List.
Should you opt for a non-compliant inverter, your electricity supplier retains the right to disconnect your supply until the inverter is replaced—a costly endeavor that can be easily avoided. It is far wiser to invest a bit more upfront in the correct inverter to prevent any future disappointments.
Knowledgeable solar installers are well-versed in these requirements. Should your installer suggest an inverter not found on this approved list, exercise caution and consider seeking an alternative.
Sustainable Energy Africa supports work in South Africa and several other Sub-Saharan African countries, with a particular emphasis on municipalities in South Africa.
You may begin your involvement with Sustainable Energy Africa by exploring our website to gain insight into our endeavours. Feel free to reach out to us to inquire about opportunities and stay updated through our social media channels. Attend our events and workshops to engage with our initiatives firsthand. If you’re a student, inquire about available internships. For accurate information, always connect with us directly.
SEA offers a range of online resources. The Urban Energy Support website serves as a practical information hub for sustainable local energy development and a low-carbon trajectory in South Africa. The SmartBuildings website connects South Africans to transformative spaces, while the Municipal Energy Management System website provides a reference for municipalities. The Embedded Generation Resource portal offers SSEG-related documents for South African municipalities. The Community Energy website offers information for the public on electricity use in the home and community owned renewable energy.
Stay connected through our quarterly newsletters, featuring the latest insights from SEA and pertinent resources for the energy sector and local municipalities. You can easily subscribe via the sign-up section at the bottom of our website or the Newsletter section on our Home page. Additionally, for updates, you can explore our News section.
Although SEA is recognised for its work in advocacy, research, and capacity-building in the realm of sustainable energy, please note that we do not currently provide consulting services for sustainable energy projects.
Feel free to reach out to us through email at info@sustainable.org.za, by phone at +27 (0)21 702 3622, or by visiting our offices located at The Green Building, 9B Bell Crescent Close, Westlake Business Park, Tokai, Cape Town, South Africa.