- An increase in customer demand for solar PV systems has resulted in a surge of solar installation companies.
- Roof leaks, among others, is the common complaint from solar homeowners should the system be improperly installed – making solar PV quality installations critical.
Finding a qualified professional installer who offers excellent service at a competitive price is essential. This is how:
CHOOSE AN INSTALLER WHO IS PV GREENCARD ACCREDITED
Prior to deciding which installer to go with, The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) urges consumers to check a company’s credentials and membership as installers have to meet specific standards to be accredited. Accredited installers are certified and trained to ensure the system meets industry best practice standards.
‘A good installer is one that is trained, has some accreditation and can provide a legal, compliant installation in terms of applicable national regulations and municipal requirements,’ explains SAPVIA programme manager, Niveshen Govender.
SAPVIA is committed to the responsibility and sustainability of the industry. In doing so, the PV GreenCardwas developed to assure that the installer is following the latest industry guidelines, using quality components, specifying the system correctly and installing it properly.
‘It ought to also provide comfort to financiers and insurers that the system will perform to specification,’ explains Nedbank’s Head of Transformation and Sustainability, Mark Boshoff.
‘The added benefit is that should the client wish to sell the facilities with the PV system installed; it should command a better valuation if it carries the PVGreenCard,’ he adds.
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The PV GreenCard platform also provides the customer with a checklist to ensure your installer is explaining all relevant topics before the installation. The installer can use the PV GreenCard to declare compliance with relevant standards as well as safety guidelines for PV installation.
COMPANY REPUTATION
A good reputation is crucial. When finding an installer, SAPVIA strongly recommends one with a successful track record. Read online reviews, ask friends, family and acquaintances with a solar system for their recommendations.
COMPARE QUOTES
SAPVIA suggests obtaining a minimum of three quotations to compare pricing. ‘Ask the installers to explain the generation and installation process and make sure to understand everything before agreeing to the installation,’ says Govender.
SAPVIA also encourages customers to use reputable components and ensure that they have manufacturer warranties on the equipment being installed. ‘Like with any purchase of equipment, I recommend doing some research on the brands,’ Govender says.
SAPVIA member brands are usually a safe bet.
Information of becoming an accredited installer through the PV Greencard Platform can be found on : https://www.pvgreencard.co.za/installers/
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
Specify Seraphim solar panels to your installer.
Seraphim Solar has a solar panel factory in South Africa servicing the African continent. Read more
Earlier this year, Seraphim climbed into Bloomberg’s Top 10 Tier 1 ranking making their modules highly bankable. EPC’s and IPP’s operating in South Africa and the rest of the African continent are encourage to place orders with Seraphim in order to support local industry and job creation.
Prices and range are highly competitive catering for the small and large scale projects. The Seraphim sales department is ready to take your enquiry, simply drop them a mail: sales@seraphim-solar.co.za
Seraphim Solar has a manufacturing facility in Port Elisabeth, South Africa.
