GAUTENG: The real cost of a solar power system could be much higher in the long run. This is according to Wynand van Vuuren of King Price Insurance.
Several South Africans continue opting to invest in solar power to navigate persisting load shedding and ever-rising electricity prices in the hope of gaining independence from the grid.
“It is not surprising that solar power is a fast-growing trend. As of early 2025, around 600 000 homes (3.5% of South African households) are powered, at least partly, by the sun,” he said.
However, Van Vuuren warned that while the appeal of solar is clear, the hidden risks, both financial and structural, are often overlooked.
“With installations costing anywhere from R70 000 for a basic system to nearly R400 000 for a fully off-grid set-up, this is no small investment. You would not dream of leaving your car uninsured. The cost of potential repairs, replacements, and third-party liability if you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property, is just too high.
“For the same reasons, it is critical to insure your solar system. Step one, though, is to make sure it is installed properly. Things can get messy when a solar installation is done badly. It is not just a wiring issue, it can become a very real risk to your home and your safety.
“A solar set-up that looks neat and tidy from the outside can hide all kinds of problems if it has not been installed by a qualified professional,” Van Vuuren said.
He warned that a poor installation can void the manufacturer’s warranty as well as your insurance.
“You could be stuck replacing panels, inverters, batteries, and even your home or car if they are damaged because of your system going wrong – all out of your own pocket.”
Van Vuuren said the benefits are worthwhile, ensuring an installer is legitimate.
“The good news is that if your solar system has been installed by a certified electrician who issues a valid certificate of compliance (CoC), and you have insured your installation correctly, you are most likely covered for theft, weather damage, power surges, and more.
“We pay out all valid claims for solar system loss and damage, but we cannot stress this enough: If your set-up is not compliant with your insurer’s requirements, and you do not have a CoC, your claim may be rejected.
“Another important point to remember is that a solar system adds to the value of your home. So, when you install one, it is not just about making sure the system itself is covered; it is also about updating your building’s insured value.”
“Solar installations are an investment, and the temptation to go with the guy who promises to ‘hook you up’ for half the price is real. But you could be risking the structural soundness of your home and the safety of your family, and leaving yourself exposed to financial risk down the line.
“Installing solar panels is one of the smartest things you can do in South Africa right now,” said Van Vuuren.
“But, like all smart decisions, it pays to do it properly. And make sure your insurance is in place,” he added.
