If your solar photovoltaic system produces excess electricity, which you can export to the electricity grid, you might be eligible for receiving a feed-in tariff (FiT). The solar feed in tariff sa will vary according to your PV system and retailer.
In SA, the two types of feed-in tariffs offered are retailer feed-in tariff and distributor feed-in tariff. Only eligible solar PV systems connected to the grid before September 30, 2011, fall under the purview of distributor FiT.
So if your connection was approved post-September 2011 or you are looking to apply for a new connection, it is a retailer feed-in tariff you should explore.
This article helps you find the best feed-in tariff in SA.
Table Of Contents
Know the Different Types of FiT
The retailer will pay you for the surplus amount of electricity produced by the solar PV system that you export to the grid. Under retailers, the two types of feed-in tariffs are single-rate and time-varying. These types determine how you will be paid for the surplus electricity.
You will receive the same rate for exported electricity in a single-rate tariff, irrespective of when you feed the grid. On the other hand, time-varying feed-in tariff lets you make the most of the peak, off-peak, and shoulder periods. So, if you export electricity to the grid during the peak time of 3 pm to 1 am, you will receive higher rates.
FiT Rates
Next, look at the rates offered per kWh. You might think going ahead with a retailer with the solar feed-in tariff in SA would be a good bet, but that is not always the case. Not all retailers operate across SA, your location matters.
Other retailers might offer you good rates on a conditional basis. For example, you might have to buy a solar system through them. There is no minimum feed-in tariff set in SA. Thus, the rates vary according to retailers.
Energy Needs
As an extension to the above point, a high FiT rate should not mean high supply and usage charges as well. Your base rates still need to be competitive. Estimate your usage and the amount of electricity you can afford to export.
For example, if your small household can export limited electricity, it would be better to go for a plan that offers competitive base rates and a low-to-medium FiT.
Limited Time Offers
Carefully go through your contract to understand the conditions involved. For example, some retailers might offer a high FiT during the promotional period, which may last for about 6 to 12 months, post which you will receive a reduced FiT. Understand the discounts offered as most of them are available on a conditional basis.
Customer Support
Lastly, check for the kind of customer service offered by the retailer. They should help you understand the tariffs in detail and support you to get the most of your solar PV system.
When looking for an electricity retailer offering feed-in tariffs, consider factors like FiT plans and rates, your electricity usage, promotional offers, and customer care. Comparing plans online from retailers would be the recommended way of finding the best solar feed in tariff in SA. You can effortlessly browse through accurate information on one website and choose the retailer that fits your unique requirements.
