Eskom is offering homeowners rebates of up to 46% on the cost of installing solar water-heating systems. Eskom’s solar-rebate programme means that homeowners can save up to R9,702 on the cost of installed solar water-heating systems, which typically range in price from R15, 265 to R33 000, depending on the make and size of geyser, type of roof and overall complexity of installation.
Link to the latest Eskom Rebates released 11th January 2010
The program enables consumers to buy solar water heaters from accredited suppliers and claim a portion of the costs back.
But the system must be SABS approved, include a functioning timer and be installed by an Eskom approved installer. A valid claim for the rebate must be submitted, using the Eskom certificate of compliance form provided by the installer.
Subsidies will vary among accredited suppliers and systems.
Andrew Etzinger, Eskom general manager of demand side management, said South Africa’s climate makes the installation of solar panels a viable alternative to traditional electrical hot water geyser’s.
The systems could use solar energy to produce between 50% and 90% of a typical household’s heated water requirements and save up to 70% of hot water heating costs.
Not all imported solar water heaters are able to withstand the harsh South African climatic conditions, high temperatures and water quality.
Homeowners seeking rebates must submit a completed rebate claim application to Eskom Deloitte, which undertakes to settle complete and valid claims within an eight-week period.
Claim application forms will be provided to the customers by the installer of the system. Rebate programs such as this one have been running successfully around the world for years and Eskom is optimistic that we can achieve similar benefits in South Africa.