According to the recently released South Africa’s Largest Solar Survey (https://apo-opa.co/487ALDZ), the South African solar market has changed, with the primary drivers for solar adoption being rising electricity tariffs and a desire for cost savings.
The findings mark a fundamental shift in how South Africans approach energy investment. While load shedding initially sparked the solar boom, the survey shows adoption momentum remains strong despite the easing of power cuts, with 82% of homeowners and 79% of businesses surveyed who don’t have solar planning to install solar within the next 12 months.
Solar generation now costs between 30% to 50% less than grid electricity (around R1.20–R1.70/kWh equivalent after installation). The survey results reveal that 93% of homeowners and 79% of businesses surveyed with solar systems are already realising measurable savings on their electricity bills.
The research, conducted by Jaltech (https://Jaltech.co.za/) and based on over 2,000 South African solar users and potential adopters, represents the country’s largest solar user survey to date.
Enlit Africa and Jaltech will present a webinar of the key insights from the report at 12pm on Tuesday, 25 November 2025. This session is tailored for solar installers/developers, commercial and industrial energy users, and landlords who are considering solar or want to understand current market trends and the impact of solar adoption. Register here: https://apo-opa.co/3MdCXT2
In the commercial and industrial market, the use of energy management systems (EMS) is rising, helping users optimise performance, monitor savings, and reduce wastage, an indication that South African businesses are becoming more energy savvy, driven by the high cost of power. For 54% of business users surveyed, solar now offsets the majority of their energy consumption.
“South Africa’s solar market has matured rapidly,” says Jonty Sacks, partner at Jaltech. “What began as a response to unreliable electricity supply has become a core financial decision. Solar now represents cost stability, resilience and long-term savings for South Africans from day one.”
Respondents included homeowners and businesses across diverse sectors, from retail malls and commercial property to agriculture and manufacturing.
The full survey can be accessed here: https://apo-opa.co/487ALDZ
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.
About Enlit Africa:
Enlit Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4444Mnd) brings the top manufacturers, associations, institutions, and government leaders together to shape a sustainable, prosperous energy and water future for Africa. A leading power, energy and water conference and exhibition, Enlit Africa is designed to provide a unique platform to connect decision-makers and determine Africa’s future direction of travel.
Enlit Africa takes place annually at the CTICC, Cape Town, South Africa. The event is CPD accredited by the SAIEE and SAICE, thereby contributing to the professional development of industry experts.
For more information, please visit the Enlit Africa website (https://apo-opa.co/4444Mnd).
About Jaltech:
Jaltech is a leading alternative investment and renewable energy fund manager, financing solar installations across South Africa. The firm has funded over R1 billion in commercial solar assets, helping businesses and homeowners reduce their electricity costs while supporting the country’s transition to cleaner energy.
About VUKA Group:
VUKA Group (https://WeAreVUKA.com/) brings people and organisations together to connect with information and each other in meaningful conversations to reach the next level of growth in their industry ecosystem. With 20 years of experience in Africa, the group serves the Energy, Mining, Smart Mobility, Transport and Retail sectors, through a range of industry touchpoints across digital, print and in-person platforms. With a commitment to data at its core, the group is well-positioned to support industry stakeholders today and into the future. Operating from Cape Town, South Africa the group is actively involved in projects across continental Africa and boasts a diverse African team who take great pride in the work they do for the sectors and markets they serve.
