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Reflecting on 2023

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 20:14:04 GMT

The year 2023 has been one of growth and overcoming tough challenges for SOCO ENERGY. We've truly advanced and achieved notable results. Reflecting on our journey this year, the theme “taking power back” has emerged more vividly than ever.

South Africa has faced its share of energy challenges this year, and we've seen our clients taking power back as they engaged with us to develop tailored solutions for their complex needs. Whether facing local municipal issues or national load-shedding, their resilience has shone brightly. These challenges have also strengthened us as a team at SOCO ENERGY, as we've risen to meet our customers' evolving needs. In 2024, we'll see the fruition of projects initiated in late 2023 that require sophisticated solutions.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our SOCO ENERGY team. Their dedication has enabled us to accomplish great things this year. Working collaboratively has made all the difference.

Our clients also deserve immense gratitude. Many returned for additional projects, demonstrating their continued trust in our brand. We are proud to partner with them and support their progress.

This year has transformed our mindset and methods at SOCO ENERGY. We're excited about 2024 and eager to continue delivering in line with our values of commitment, consistency, and curiosity. Wishing everyone a safe and joyful holiday season, and all the best for the New Year!

Going Solar: A Once-Off Deal or a Journey of Sustainability?

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 13:33:21 GMT

At SOCO ENERGY, we are deeply committed to ensuring that every solar installation we undertake is not just a one-time transaction but a satisfying renewable journey. We firmly believe in the power of renewable energy to transform our world, and this transformation begins with technical compliance, accountability, and continuous support. Let us explore some critical factors that set a reputable installation company apart from unscrupulous installers:

Technical Compliance of a Solar Installation

Technical compliance is the foundation of a safe and efficient solar installation. It encompasses various crucial elements that are essential to the system's performance, safety, and regulatory adherence. To only name a few, here are some important compliance factors a reputable installer must consider:

Earthing and Bonding: Proper earthing and bonding are vital to ensure safety in a solar installation. They protect against electrical faults and lightning strikes. Without appropriate grounding, the risk of electrical shock or fire increases substantially. Reputable installers ensure that all components are correctly grounded and bonded, mitigating these risks.
Isolation and Protection Circuitry: Isolation switches and protection circuitry are essential for the safety and performance of a solar system. They allow for the isolation of the system during maintenance or emergencies. Neglecting these components can lead to accidents during servicing or, in extreme cases, electrical fires.
Correctly Sized Cables and Fuses: The size of cables and fuses within a solar system is not arbitrary; it's a precise calculation based on the system's electrical load. Inadequately sized cables and fuses can result in overheating, energy losses, or even system failure. Compliance requires careful consideration of these components to ensure optimal system performance and safety.
AC and DC Surge Protection: Surge protection is crucial in a solar installation to safeguard against voltage spikes, particularly in areas prone to lightning strikes or unstable municipal supply. AC and DC surge protectors shield the system from the damaging effects of surges. Neglecting this protection can result in costly damage to inverters, panels, and other system components.
Certificate of Compliance: After the installation is complete, a valid Certificate of Compliance is a crucial document. This certificate attests that the solar installation adheres to local and national regulations, safety standards, and quality guidelines. It is essential not only for regulatory purposes but also for the peace of mind that your system is both safe and efficient. Warranties and insurance companies will not cover your installation if the CoC is not completely valid.

These technical compliance factors are non-negotiable in a reputable solar installation. They ensure the safety of the system, protect your investment, and guarantee eligibility for incentives and rebates. Always demand these standards when choosing your solar installation provider.

Cost of Compliance

Compliance unfortunately comes at a cost. Some consumers are lured by the lower prices offered by subpar installers who may cut corners on these vital compliance elements. However, these apparent savings often come at a significant cost, as non-compliant systems can pose safety risks, have lower efficiency, and may not be eligible for incentives. Remember, a quality solar installation is an investment in your future.

Qualifications and Accountability of Solar Installers

A reputable solar installation company will employ properly trained and certified technicians who understand the importance of these technical compliance factors. They will be accountable for their work, ensuring that it meets all regulatory and safety standards.

Qualifications that are non-negotiable:

Wiremans license (legal requirement)
Registered with the Department of Labor (legal requirement)
PV Greencard certification (SAPVIA accreditation)
Registered with Electrical Contractors Association or Electrical Conformance Board of Southern Africa

Experience of a Qualified Installer

Experience is invaluable in the solar industry. A seasoned installer understands the nuances of solar technology, local regulations, and potential challenges that may arise during installation. They can anticipate and address issues effectively, ensuring a smoother installation process.

When evaluating solar installers, consider their experience as a crucial factor. An experienced installer is more likely to deliver a reliable and high-performance system. A solar installation is much more than mounting components on a wall, the system needs to be calibrated and optimized for the specific application to suit the needs of the end user.

The Importance of After Sales Support

Going solar is a long-term commitment, and it doesn't end with the installation. Reputable companies offer warranties, service plans and support to provide peace of mind. After-sales support is not a product that can be purchased online, but forms the basis of a maintained relationship with your installer. This is essential for optimizing the performance of your system, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring its longevity.

In conclusion, going solar should be viewed as a renewable journey rather than a one-time deal. Choosing a reputable and qualified solar installation company ensures technical compliance, safety, and accountability. While subpar installers may offer lower prices, the long-term benefits of choosing a reputable company, such as efficiency, safety, and after-sales support, far outweigh the initial cost. By making an informed decision and investing in quality, you're not just going solar; you're embarking on a sustainable energy journey that will benefit you for years to come.

PRESS RELEASE

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 10:24:20 GMT

Johannesburg – Renewable energy company Solar 365 today announced a name change to SOCO ENERGY, as part of a strategic brand refresh to mark its continued commitment to bring South Africans reliable, high-quality, full-service clean energy.

Founded in 2016, SOCO ENERGY, then known as Solar365, has seen the need for alternative energy solutions rise year-on-year as citizens increasingly face the reality of rolling blackouts with no end in sight. And as the solar and battery industry become more saturated and complex, consumers face the added burden of needing to weigh up cost and value benefits from a wide range of options.

“It’s no wonder that many struggle to decide on a provider who will deliver what they need and help them future-proof their homes and businesses,” says Amit Abraham, CEO at SOCO ENERGY.

“With over 65 years of combined engineering and project management experience, as well as over 500 projects under our belt, we’re proud to already be a trusted brand in this sector. Our new name and look represents our evolution and expansion into a multifaceted energy solutions provider dedicated to meeting the energy needs of individuals, businesses, and communities throughout South Africa.”

Abraham adds that even though the company is evolving in line with the rapidly-changing renewable energy landscape, it remains a customer-focused business that values long-lasting client relationships.

He explains, “Our drive to delight our customers and stay on top of global innovation in the field stems from SOCO’s values of commitment, consistency and curiosity. That’s why, in an industry that can often feel overwhelming and transactional for consumers, we make a point of prioritising quality, reliability, and exceptional after-sales care.”

SOCO ENERGY offers full EPC services including engineering design from concept to completion for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), Commercial Grid-tied Solar PV and Hybrid Solar, for both residential and commercial clients.

To complement its brand refresh, SOCO has launched a new website along with an instant quoting tool that allows residential customers to get a cost estimate in just minutes. All customers need do is input their typical monthly energy use as stated on their electricity bill for detailed quote on a fully installed system.

Visit soco.energy for more on SOCO ENERGY’s solutions.

ENDS

For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Amit Abraham CEO, SOCO ENERGY amit@soco.energy

About SOCO ENERGY SOCO ENERGY, formerly known as Solar365, is a leading renewable energy solutions provider committed to driving the transition to clean and sustainable energy sources in South Africa. With a comprehensive portfolio of innovative products and services, we empower individuals, businesses, and communities throughout the nation to embrace renewable energy and contribute to a greener future. Our commitment to Commitment, Consistency, and Curiosity sets us apart, ensuring that our customers receive reliable, high-quality, and forward-thinking energy solutions. Learn more about us at https://soco.energy

A case for solar pv and BESS - Why business should invest.

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT

Solar energy and battery energy storage systems (BESS) are becoming increasingly popular in South Africa as a way to reduce energy costs and increase energy independence. By combining solar panels and BESS, businesses can take advantage of a range of benefits, municipal energy cost saving including energy arbitrage and diesel fuel savings during power failures, peak shaving, or frequency regulation, etc.

To be more specific, the primary goals of implementing an BESS is to address several challenges that arise when integrating renewables into the grid on a large scale including:

Batteries are more effective at frequency regulation compared to traditional spinning reserves from power plants.
Batteries provide a cost-effective alternative to network expansion for reducing the need to curtail wind and solar power generation.
Renewable power generation often does not coincide with electricity demand, therefore excess renewable energy needs to be either curtailed or exported. BESS allows excess power to be stored in batteries for use later when renewable power generation is low and electricity price and demand is high.
Storage systems can make the grid more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

Furthermore, one of the main benefits of solar energy and BESS for businesses is the opportunity to save money on energy costs. By generating their own electricity, businesses can significantly reduce their reliance on the grid and the associated costs. This is particularly true for businesses that consume a large amount of electricity, such as manufacturing facilities and large office buildings, shopping malls, etc. Since 2018, South African has seen an increasing number of days of load shedding largely due to a constrained power system with an old unreliable generation system which demands for a new and additional generation capacity.

Figure 1: Trend of increasing days of load shedding (Source: Absa RBB Sectors)

In addition to load-shedding, South African energy consumers are facing increasing tariffs by Eskom (15%) and municipalities (18%) which, for BESS and PV customers, makes the investment an even more attractive business case.

One of the key benefits of solar energy and BESS mentioned briefly earlier is the ability to take advantage of energy arbitrage. This refers to the practice of buying electricity when it is cheap or storing energy generated in a BESS from excess solar and utilising it back downstream when it is more expensive to consume municipal energy. Energy arbitrage is especially viable for consumers on the Time of Use (TOU) tariff structure. This can generate additional savings for the business, further offsetting the initial cost of the solar panels and BESS.

Solar energy and BESS can also provide a valuable backup power source during power failures. Diesel generators are often used as a backup power source, but they can be expensive to operate and maintain. By using solar energy and BESS, businesses can avoid the need to frequently start their diesel generators and avoid the associated fuel costs. This is especially important for businesses that rely on electricity to run critical operations, such as manufacturing, hospitals or data centres, etc.

In addition to the financial benefits, solar energy and BESS also offer environmental benefits. Solar energy is a clean, renewable source of electricity, and by generating their own electricity, businesses can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. This is particularly important in South Africa, where electricity generation is heavily reliant on coal, a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

In conclusion, solar energy and BESS offer a range of benefits for South African businesses. By generating their own electricity, businesses can reduce energy costs, take advantage of energy arbitrage, and avoid the need for expensive diesel generators and achieve real energy independence. Additionally, solar energy and BESS offer environmental benefits by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Overall, solar energy and BESS are an attractive and cost-effective option for businesses looking to increase energy independence and reduce energy costs.

Are you ready to take power back? Reach out to us at SOCO ENERGY for more information and assessment of your needs.

How do I take advantage of renewable energy?

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 22:12:03 GMT

Renewable Energy

Not too long ago solar systems were a concept of science fiction. A dream of when we could use our natural resources to sustain ourselves. With time there has been increased demand for the resources we have, now compelling us to turn to these natural resources as an alternative.

With the strain that is now placed on our current power systems and the demands on fossil fuel, not forgetting the term that is now part of our daily lives, load-shedding, never before has the demand for an alternative been this needed in our cities and homes. The reality is that the uncertainty of the sustainability of our current systems now forces society to rely on our natural and renewable resources to survive and function.

To assist, in 2016 the South African Government also provided a tax incentive with the South African Revenue Service for the installation of solar power systems. Further, certain municipalities have also incentivized the use of solar power with incentives like net metering.

The sun is a natural resource and replenishes every day. Every opportunity where the sun's rays touch the earth should be one where we could transform those rays into usable energy, for ourselves and for the benefit of the environment.

How does Solar Power work?

The high solar radiation levels in South Africa provide the optimum environment for taking advantage of solarsystems and energy to power our lives.

Interestingly, solar panels function better and convert solar energy better on a colder day, as opposed to a full sunny and hot day, as the panels can produce more electricity in the same amount of time. Despite this, other factors like cloud cover, which is less on a sunny day, still make it so that the panels draw the most energy on these days with little cloud cover. And even so, despite cloud cover, radiation can penetrate clouds, still making the use ofsolar panels a more reliable alternative to using fossil fuels.

The system of solar power also allows for the potential to use a solar storage system, where the customer can store any unused energy, thereby making the system even more sustainable, and reliance on fossil fuels less necessary.

The formal name for a solar panel is a Photovoltaic (PV) solar panel. These panels are made up of solar cells, and each solar cell is in turn made of silicone, which acts as a conductor. Set in positive and negative layers, they create a circuit.

When photons make contact with a solar cell, it causes electrons to separate from their atoms. An electrical circuit is created where conductors have been attached to the positive and negative ends of a cell. When these loose electrons flow through the cell in this way, a circuit, electricity is generated. A solar panel is made up of several cells, and with several panels combined, it creates a solar array, creating more energy.

Solar panels generate direct current electricity (DC). Electrons flow in one direction in the solar panel circuit, moving from the positive side to the negative side in a DC circuit. The DC electricity is then processed through a solar inverter, specifically a micro inverter, which converts the DC electricity into usable alternating current electricity (AC). Micro inverters are helpful in that they allow each solar panel to function independently, as opposed to a central inverter, where if there is one disruption in the system, it would cause the whole system to fail.

Interested? Contact our offices today to find out more!

What do I need to consider when installing solar panels?

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 22:12:03 GMT

Why should I install solar panels?

The products provided by solar power systems are vast, each helping us and moving us towards more self-sustainability and a healthier environment. With this self-sustainability also comes a reduced cost, whereas solar systems are also more effective in terms of the long-term expenditure of relying on them.

Finding the right solar panel installer

Engaging the services of solar system providers is also an experience where you want the best people, with the best knowledge, advising you and providing you with the products that suit your particular needs.

OnConsult (Pty) Ltd T/A Solar365, now rebranded to SOCO ENERGY, established in 2016, has a combined experience of 65 years in the business, with their professionals bringing years of experience from the engineering industry to the understanding of your solar power system needs in your office and home. When it comes to solar panel products and installation, it is not about the installation itself, but also the service and advice that goes along with it, which is very much needed in this innovative industry.

Considerations for installing solar panels

Many aspects need to be taken into account when determining what solar panel installation will be right for you, and here is also where a trusted industry professional and installer will assist.

One of the many considerations that you will be presented with, is to determine how many panels you will need. You can generally do this by comparing your previous utility usage to the wattage of each solar panel. Our specialists will gladly assist you in determining your requirements.

Another aspect that may affect your decisions around a structure that suits you, will be the hours of peak sunlight that your area receives in a day. Different areas within the same Country will receive different peak hours of sunlight, and that is something to be considered. Also, not all panels are the same, and the quality of the panel itself will also impact its energy efficiency. Further, solar panels which aim to keep the rooftop footprint tight will offer the best efficiency in this regard.

Solar panel weight and size are also another consideration. Some larger panels are less efficient than the smaller panels and depending on the space available on your roof, you will need to decide in this regard, and perhaps sacrifice efficiency.

Understanding the capacity of your roof to accommodate the weight of several panels on it must also be taken into consideration. The age and nature of your roof may be a factor as well, and the strength of the materials that it is made from, and whether it will be strong enough for the added weight.

All of this will be just as relevant as the actual angle of your roof, and whether it is positioned in an acceptable way for the sun’s rays to reach it efficiently.

The installation of solar power at your home or business is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It is a very intricate procedure and requires specialist knowledge. It is not as simple as requesting the services of an electrician to assist. Additional training is required to be able to install the panels, and as such, you shouldn't attempt to install them yourself. With proper installation, service, and support, the benefits of switching will be evident in your costs, as well as in the environment.

Sunlight is clean, renewable, and an increasingly inexpensive source of energy. This compared to the fossil fuels that we predominantly still rely on, which took many years to form, and with each usage nearing its depletion, not to forget its high cost as demand has grown and the resource dwindles.

Talk to one of our solar panel advisors today to assist you in determining a solution that is best for you.