The path to a greener future is a decision, not a dream, and it’s in your hands. It’s as much for your business’s benefit as for the planet.
South Africa’s businesses have an opportunity here to lead the way by embracing proven renewable solutions. Solarus makes that choice simple. With systems that cut costs, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure energy security, Solarus empowers you to make sustainability a cornerstone of your business strategy.
The Solarus Advantage: Driving Eco-Friendly Business Practices
Solarus’ solution generates both electricity and heat from the same system. Instead of wasting 80% of the sun’s energy as heat, like traditional solar panels, Solarus PVT panels capture and use it – reaching an incredible 89% efficiency.
- More energy from less space. Solarus PVT panels deliver four times more energy per square metre compared to standard solar PV systems. For businesses like hotels, hospitals, and industrial facilities, this means getting maximum energy output from existing roof space.
- Big savings, fast. Solarus systems aren’t just good for the planet – they’re great for your bottom line. Businesses see three times more profitability than with traditional solar solutions. Solarus guarantees to eliminate your hot water bill while significantly cutting overall energy costs.
- Energy you can count on. Whether you need consistent hot water for a hospital or a backup energy source during load-shedding, Solarus’ solution keeps your business running smoothly, even off the grid.
- Easy installation, minimal disruption. Transitioning to green energy doesn’t have to be complicated. Solarus’ solution is designed for quick and seamless integration. Most installations take just a week, with only one or two hours of downtime for your business.
With more than 100 installations across 25 countries, including a strong presence in South Africa, Solarus has a proven track record of success. Its proprietary, patent-protected technology, backed by a team of experts, ensures that every solution serves your organisation and the environment.
Case Study: Pioneering Sustainable Hospitality
Back in 2021, a hotel approached us to help them reduce reliance on traditional energy sources, cut costs, and align with environmentally conscious business practices.
They required a solution to sustainably heat water for its 24 guest rooms while reducing the strain on its existing electrical heaters. The system needed to be efficient, integrate easily with existing infrastructure, and provide measurable energy and cost savings.
That’s exactly what Solarus delivered with its PVT solution.
System Capabilities
- Solar heat generation: 9,046 kWh per year.
- Solar electricity generation: 3,854 kWh per year.
- CO₂ savings: 3,931 kg per year.
Results
- One-third of the hotel’s hot water demand is now met directly by solar heat.
- The electricity generated by the system is used to power the existing electrical heaters and other hotel appliances.
- With reduced reliance on grid electricity, the system’s payback period is just 5.6 years, making it a financially viable investment.
- The system’s solar heat and electricity reduce CO₂ emissions by nearly 4 tonnes annually, and so support the hotel’s commitment to sustainability.
- The smart control system allows the hotel to monitor and optimise the system remotely.
Case Study: A 100% Renewable Solution
A coastal hotel in the Western Cape, South Africa, contacted us for an energy solution to power its operations while reducing environmental impact.
With 28 guest rooms requiring consistent hot water and electricity, the hotel partnered with Solarus in 2021 to implement an integrated photovoltaic-thermal and heat pump system; we installed 20 PVT panels integrated with a heat pump.
System Capabilities
- Solar heat generation: 26,656 kWh per year.
- Solar electricity generation: 11,222 kWh per year.
- Renewable energy utilisation: 100% renewable solution.
Results
- Solar heat meets 40% of the hot water demand directly, with the remaining covered by a heat pump.
- The electricity generated by PVT panels fully powers the heat pump, creating a self-sustaining energy loop.
- Solar energy directly covers three-fourths of the hot water demand, with electric boilers providing the remaining one-fourth.
- Implemented as an energy-as-a-service model, the hotel pays Solarus directly from the savings achieved in energy costs. This eliminates upfront investment.
- The system includes a remote monitoring feature, so the hotel can track performance and optimise for maximum efficiency.
Case Study: Sustainable Energy for Wellness
In 2023, a popular spa partnered with Solarus to address one of its most pressing challenges: the high energy costs associated with maintaining its luxurious heated pools at a constant 38°C. They needed a solution that could reliably meet these energy demands.
Solarus installed its advanced integrated photovoltaic-thermal system. The system utilises both east- and west-facing roofs to maximise energy production throughout the spa’s operational hours.
System Capabilities
- Solar heat generation: 32,554 kWh annually (equivalent to 4,335 m³ of gas saved annually).
- Solar electricity generation: 11,482 kWh per year.
- CO₂ savings: 11,982 kg per year (equivalent to preserving 499 trees).
Results
- 56% of the hot water demand for pool heating is met directly by solar heat, significantly reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.
- The electricity generated is used directly by sauna heaters during the day, ensuring maximum efficiency and minimal energy waste.
- With reduced energy costs, the system’s payback period is just five years, making it a financially sound investment.
- Annual CO₂ savings of nearly 12 tonnes and the preservation of 499 trees highlight the spa’s contribution to combating climate change.
Solarus’ Alignment with Sustainability Goals in South Africa
As highlighted in the Guide to Eco-Friendly Businesses in South Africa, South African businesses are implementing strategies to lower their carbon footprints, with companies like Mpact offsetting emissions through recycling.
Similarly, Solarus enables substantial CO₂ savings through its photovoltaic-thermal system: In one example, our system saves 11,982 kg of CO₂ annually, equivalent to preserving 499 trees and thus directly contributing to South Africa’s climate action goals.
In another instance, Solarus offsets 3,931 kg of CO₂ annually, while covering one-third of a hotel’s hot water needs through solar heat.
The Guide to Eco-Friendly Businesses highlights renewable energy as a critical area of growth, citing companies like WakaWaka for their commitment to solar-powered solutions. Solarus similarly drives renewable energy adoption: at one hotel, we installed a 100% renewable energy solution that meets over 75% of the hotel’s hot water demand through solar energy, with the remaining energy requirements met by electricity generated from the system itself.
Don’t wait for rising energy costs or increasing environmental pressures to force your hand. By partnering with Solarus, you’ll take control of your energy future and align your business with South Africa’s sustainability goals.