Having options can be a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it’s great to have the freedom to choose what option best suits your needs; on the other hand, it can be daunting having to weigh up those options, especially when you’re not entirely sure what your needs actually are.

We’re here to give you the best of both worlds; we’re giving you alternative power options, but we’re also going to give you a basic breakdown of the benefits of each option so that you can make an informed decision. 

Given South Africa’s current electricity predicament, more and more people are opting to either get off the grid entirely, or install automatic switchover solutions for when loadshedding or power cuts hit. Automatic Switchover refers to when a backup power solution automatically kicks in when it detects a power outage, so you won’t have to manually turn on your backup power. 

There are two main types of alternative power solutions available: Solar Energy, and Generators. Both types are useful and they each have their benefits. 

Alternative Power option 1 – Solar Energy

We say out with the old, in with the renewable! Reliability is a big consideration when choosing an alternative power solution, and let’s be real, the sun isn’t going to let you down. Solar energy is also an eco-friendly, renewable, and sustainable power source. It’s a great backup solution because, unlike generators, you don’t have to use fuel (petrol for generators). Solar panels can be expensive to install, though. However, despite the initial cost, solar energy is cost-effective in the long run. Solar energy as an alternative backup power solution empowers small businesses and homes by offering a cost-effective solution to loadshedding.  

While solar energy is a great alternative power solution, it’s even better as an alternative power solution full stop. Many of our customers are opting to get off the grid, with solar being a first choice for many families and businesses. We want to help you keep your business operating at full capacity, and your home running smoothly, which is why we recommend you consider switching solar. 

We offer a range of solar energy services. We also commission made-to-order panels using the Gewiss panel building software, to make sure your individual needs are met.

Alternative Power option 2 – Generators

When the power goes out, there’s a simple solution: make your own! Generators are a very popular alternative backup power solution. They’re the most cost-effective, short-term. They’re cheaper to install than solar panels, but they can prove pricy in the long run, especially if your power cuts often. Portable generators can be used to supply power to small items, but aren’t able to power the entire building. Stationary or standby generators, on the other hand, power your entire home/business in the event of an outage. Standby generators switch on automatically when the power goes out, preventing interruptions to your productivity. These generators are fuel-powered, and quieter than portable generators. 

They aren’t ideal as an alternative power solution full time because they require fuel which can be expensive long-term. They’re best used as a backup power solution.

Standby generators are connected to your home’s electrical system and must be installed by an electrician, and will include the installation of a transfer switch and sub-panel.

We offer a range of generator-related services, for both homes and businesses. We’ll also advise you on which generator would be best suited to your individual needs. 

At Titan Electrical, you are our main focus. Your safety, satisfaction, and needs are our top priority. We tailor our services to fit your needs, which includes offering scheduled appointments and upfront pricing for your convenience. Our kind, knowledgeable, and qualified Service Professionals treat your premises with the utmost care. We also take the time to listen to your concerns and answer all your questions. We tell you exactly what we’re doing during every stage of our interaction with you. 

Contact us for all of your alternative backup power solutions needs, and one of our service professionals will be by to give you a free on-site quote, professional electrical advice, and Expert Electrical Service.