Going solar is a smart decision and a big investment. Even though many homeowners may be warming up to solar installations in Kenya, it’s advisable that you take time to do your due diligence before setting up a solar power system for your home. This article highlights the 6 key factors to consider before installing home solar power system in Kenya.
1. Location of the house and inclination of the roof
For solar panels to optimally perform, they need an area receiving adequate solar radiation, as they work well in areas with wide sunlight coverage. Locations which receive average annual sunlight distribution offer more leverage to solar users. They don’t have to rely on the main grid for their power supply if they installed adequate and efficient solar equipment. Anyone intending to install solar systems in Kenya should observe that the sunlight distribution is adequate or consider using more powerful or additional systems to cater for inefficiency in the solar radiation.
Qualified solar installation companies in Kenya and technicians ensure that there are no obstructions in the installation areas to increase reception of solar radiation by the systems. The surface of installation should also be well inclined to enhance a good angle of interaction between the sun’s rays and the system surface. That is why rooftops should have the desired inclination for optimal operation of the PV solar systems.
2. The energy requirement of the property/home
Solar energy can meet all the energy requirement of a home should the owner want to go off-grid. This is possible if powerful PV solar systems are adequately configured to meet all the power demands of the property. A home or a property owner can as well decide to use solar energy to complement the supply from the main grid.
The solar energy requirement of a home plays a key role in influencing the type of the PV installation, depending on whether the property is to be partially or totally disconnected from the main grid. Going off the grid would mean that additional and more powerful solar systems need to be mounted to meet all the power demands. Using powerful equipment is, however, also recommended even if solar energy is intended as an alternative source of electricity.
3. The contracting company
Picking on an accredited solar company has a myriad of advantages. Suppliers dealing with quality equipment will probably provide warranties and at least regular servicing and maintenance of the systems. They can provide longer warranty periods, some as long as 10 years. Besides, they have the capacity to implement an expert installation of the systems. It is vital to research the best companies for the contract. A reference by a previous client can be of more help and also registration with EPRA.
Further, you can be assured that accredited solar companies in Kenya use quality solar products and have qualified personnel who oversee the entire installation process and verify its effectiveness.
4. The durability of the solar systems
The photovoltaic systems have life spans during which they have optimal performance. When shopping for the systems before their installation it is vital to observe their lifespan can last for many years. Contracting credible companies for supply and installation have more leverage since they provide quality equipment with longer warranties, showing that the solar systems have a longer lifetime to serve their purpose.
Surface-level evaluation of the systems without taking specific details of manufacture can be disastrous, as it can lead mounting of poor quality equipment that can be defective in the long run.
5. The expected length of the project
Depending on the energy requirement of the property the length of installation can also vary. Higher energy requirements imply that more equipment will be mounted, and it will require longer periods for the installation to be completed. Low energy requirements point toward a shorter installation period.
If one wishes to oversee the whole installation process they, therefore, have to delegate their time depending on the project needs. The installation period can run from a few days to weeks and even months depending on the magnitude of the work. Established companies with a large workforce can accomplish the process in few days, thus reducing the cost of operation.
6. The cost of installation
It is appropriate that one understands the cost of installation upon deciding to integrate the solar systems to their homes. Due to the fascination towards the use of clean energy and the global support towards the initiative, the cost of solar installation, however, has gone down considerably.
The Kenya government has put in place tax exemptions for most solar products and services. It is a wide step towards achieving a sustainable environment for communities today and in future. It’s important to request for a full quote from the solar companies that includes the solar equipment, labour and any other installation charges so that you can make the right decision.
In a nutshell, solar technology is instrumental for a range of reasons. It is cheap thus eliminates chances of remitting regular power bills. It also comes with low maintenance and installation costs owing to government rebates and tax cuts. Solar will forever be environmentally friendly since it does not produce hazardous environmental emissions. It does not have power surges that can cause damage to homes, as noted with other sources of energy. Importantly, emphasize the highlighted factors to enhance efficiency and optimum performance of the systems upon installation.
Ready for Solar? Consult a solar expert today.
Going with Jesaton Systems is the smart choice for anyone considering solar power system in Kenya. With high-quality equipment, expert installation, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to sustainability, we check all the boxes and more. Ready to purchase solar panels for your home? Give us a call today at +254 715 020605 or Email to learn more and take the first step towards a cleaner, greener future.
