Part of the AutoX family, Rentech was established in 2001 as a dedicated provider of renewable energy products and services. With a focus on supplying local and selected African markets, our product range includes inverters, lithium batteries, lead-acid batteries, and PV panels of the highest quality. We also provide expert advice to assist customers in choosing the best product solutions appropriate for their specific applications and requirements.
As well as being a preferred supplier to the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) market, Rentech is also an established market player in the retail sector, providing batteries to dedicated solar outlets, automotive parts retail stores and the unique Willard and SABAT Xpress battery specialist channel.
As communities the world over are forced to face the challenges surrounding a global energy crisis, we realise that the emergency has moved beyond an environmental issue, and has become a market related disaster. While still vitally important, it is no longer only about the production and consumption of clean energy. Solar, wind and other options can produce the clean, natural energy we need and desire, but Mother Nature can wreak havoc with that production.
Cloudy or windless days are not favourable to some of the technologies we need to embrace. What is the solution? The integration of renewable and traditional energy technologies into an Energy Management System (EMS) resulting in our consumption of the most consistent, safe and stable supply of energy.
More than just generating power, it is vital to have a continuous and stable energy supply. In order to achieve this, we need to accept that the days of “on demand power supply” are fast coming to an end in South Africa. The solution to securing the supply of power to industry, stabilize the energy feed to Commerce and satisfy the end user requirements, consumers need to have access to battery backup solutions.
WHAT GOING OFF-GRID REALY MEANS
Everyone has an opinion or assumption about what going off-grid means. Unfortunately, many of these opinions are wrong which can lead to unrealistic expectations. The definition of ‘off grid’ refers to disconnecting from the electrical grid and relying on self-sustaining, renewable energy sources.
Here are some facts and fictions about going off-grid. The first fact is that going off-grid can reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and potentially lower your carbon footprint. This of course requires significant planning and investment to establish a reliable off-grid system for powering your home. Going off-grid can also offer greater independence and self-sufficiency, particularly in remote locations or in a situation such as ours where we are subject to frequent power outages.
A common misconception is that going off-grid is always cheaper than staying on the grid. While you may save money in the long run, the initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs can be significant, and consumers should be aware of these costs before embarking on their off-grid journey.
Another misconception about going off grid is that it translates into complete self-sufficiency. Depending on your location, your budget and the size of your system, you may still need to rely on the grid or backup power sources at times. One can either go completely "off-grid" or semi off-grid.
On a completely off-grid system, the connection from the national power provider is completely disconnected and the account with the energy provider cancelled, saving on monthly connection costs. Semi off-grid systems can keep the national power provider connection in case of very long outages or smaller battery banks, using grid power to power appliances when/if necessary. These inverters can be set to use solar power as first option, battery to assist or provide power when the solar energy is insufficient or non-existent (such as in the evening), as second option and use utility - Eskom or generator - as third option in case of prolonged rain or in the case of smaller battery banks.
It's worth bearing in mind that despite the often-considerable investment in going completely off-grid, which may take several years to see a return on investment, the installation of your solar system will save you money on your energy bills over time and give you peace of mind in a time where energy provision is inconsistent. Moreover, your installation can increase the value of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
If you're considering going off-grid, it's important to evaluate your energy needs, location, and budget to determine the best approach. This may involve a combination of renewable energy sources, energy-efficient appliances, and lifestyle changes to reduce your overall energy consumption. Consulting with a professional company in the renewable energy industry can help you make an informed decision and design a system that meets your specific needs.
TALK TO EXPERTS
Rentech provides technical support and advice on design, implementation, usage and maintenance for a range of power solutions. We aim to ensure that your backup power solution achieves its optimal performance level for the full length of its intended lifespan.
Contact Rentech today at:
140 North Reef Road, Elandsfontein, Johannesburg, 1429
Email: jacquesdn@auto-x.co.za OR marios@auto-x.co.za
Tel: +27 11 776 4300
Web: https://rentech.co.za/