SolarAfrica | Energy solutions for businesses

Talk to us
Pick your solution
View all solutions
Talk to us
Giving industries a clean energy choice
Manufacturing
Retail
Corporate parks
FMCG
Food processing
Hospitality
Data centres
Talk to us
We power hundreds of businesses across South Africa
Talk to us
WHEELING
SOLAR
GUIDE

7 Steps to Going Green for SA Businesses

4 min read

Thinking about switching to greener energy, but not sure where to begin? You’re not alone. For many businesses, the energy transition feels daunting, riddled with higher costs, confusion and complexity – but really, it shouldn’t.

Especially if you view it as a journey to take step by step, together with the right partner.  

Making the move to renewable energy isn’t only about saving money: it’s about building a more sustainable, self-reliant future. With affordable power solutions like solar, wheeling and trading, companies can shape an energy mix that fits their operations while protecting themselves from ever-rising electricity costs. 

 At SolarAfrica, we’ve helped hundreds of South African businesses make the shift to greener energy while facilitating massive cost savings and greater energy autonomy and security.  

 To embark on your green energy journey, simply tackle it step-by-step: 

Step 1: Understand your energy profile

Every journey starts with knowing where you are. Begin by looking at your energy profile: when do you use the most power? How much are you paying in tariffs? Where are the pressure points; grid reliance, peak demand, carbon exposure? 
 
SolarAfrica’s in-house experts can work alongside you to understand this, so you can make informed choices from the outset.

 “Look for a reputable energy partner that has a proven track record of projects, in-house expertise and local presence. Ask about their future plans – your energy needs will evolve; don’t be locked into a PPA with a company that cannot meet your changing requirements.”

Step 2: Start with on-site solar solutions through a PPA

Solar solutions remain one of the most popular entry points for businesses. Through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), you get affordable power solutions with zero upfront capex. That means no financial risk just predictable tariffs, reduced reliance on Eskom-generated power, and a big step toward your sustainability targets.

Step 3: Add battery backup for greater savings

Pairing solar with a battery lease can unlock even more value. Batteries allow you to store energy and use it during peak tariff hours, cutting costs further and providing backup when the grid goes down. Think of it as a safety net that also works hard to protect your bottom line. 

Step 4: Scale with virtual solutions like Wheeling

When you’re ready to go bigger, Wheeling offers access to utility-scale renewable power, delivered through the national grid at a tariff far cheaper than Eskom. With a Virtual PPA (VPPA), you get all the benefits without needing physical space on your premises.

Step 5: Layer with energy trading

Diversification is key. Through our own trading licence, held via Energy Market SA, SolarAfrica can buy and sell energy from multiple sources, giving you flexibility, savings and control. 

Did you know? SolarAfrica is one of the few IPPs with its own trading licence, which means we can source and manage power directly for you.

Step 6: Embrace energy stacking

No single solution can solve today’s energy challenges. The real value lies in energy stacking; layering affordable power solutions such as solar, batteries, wheeling and trading to create a tailored mix. This holistic approach protects against tariff volatility, improves reliability and strengthens your green credentials.

Step 7: Partner with the right experts

The journey to sustainable power depends on the right partner. With over a decade of experience, in-house expertise across every discipline, and a track record of award-winning delivery, we offer a single point of accountability from start to finish. 
 
Finally, it is important to take this journey at your own pace. Going green doesn’t happen overnight, but each step takes you closer to cost savings, energy security and sustainability. At SolarAfrica, we’ll help you design and implement an energy mix that meets the needs of your business.

Your one source for expert advice, groundbreaking trends and actionable answers to all your energy-related questions.
SolarAfrica Secures NERSA Trading Licence | SolarAfrica
SolarAfrica Secures NERSA Trading Licence
SolarAfrica Secures NERSA Trading Licence
arrow icon
Power Up with SolarAfrica: SunCentral’s Transformer Arrives 2
Power Up with SolarAfrica: SunCentral’s Transformer Arrives
Power Up with SolarAfrica: SunCentral’s Transformer Arrives
arrow icon
7 Steps to Going Green for SA Businesses | SolarAfrica
7 Steps to Going Green for SA Businesses
7 Steps to Going Green for SA Businesses
arrow icon