This post was published on Jul 30, 2025 | Updated on Jul 30, 2025
Winter is in full swing and with Eskom’s capacity under pressure, more South Africans are turning to solar energy for their households as a stable, self-reliant power source. Whether you're already harnessing the sun or considering installing solar panels, it's important to understand how your insurance responds to solar-related risks and how to ensure you're adequately covered.
Solar Insurance: What’s Covered?
At iWYZE, we recognise the growing shift to renewable energy and offer cover for solar installations under your existing building or home contents policy. However, there are a few key things to keep in mind:• Cash-only settlements: If your solar panels or equipment get damaged due to an insured event, your claim will be paid out in cash. This allows you the flexibility to choose your own repairers, but it also places the responsibility on you to ensure quality installation and components.
• Certificate of Compliance (CoC) is a must: Your solar installation must be compliant with the applicable SANS regulations (South African National Standards) and a valid CoC must be issued. Failure to comply could result in your claim being rejected. This is one of the most common pitfalls for policyholders, so it’s critical to make sure your installer is accredited and certified.
• Beware of poor workmanship: If your system causes secondary damage (e.g., a fire) and is found to have been incorrectly installed or non-compliant, your claim could be denied. Proper documentation and compliance go a long way toward safeguarding your cover.
Making an Informed Solar Investment
Given the upfront costs of solar systems, it's worth doing thorough research before you commit. Here are a few practical tips to protect your investment and ensure insurance cover is in place:• Request and retain your CoC: This is your proof of compliance.
• Inform your insurer: Let us know once your solar panels are installed so we can correctly assess your risk and update your policy schedule.
• Keep documentation: Invoices, warranties, and specs of the equipment are important in the event of a claim.
Solar Growth in South Africa
According to government data, over 1.2 million households have adopted some form of solar energy solution, whether as a backup or a primary source. Eskom has acknowledged that this shift is reducing demand from the grid, but it's also a reminder of the urgency for regulated, compliant installations. (Stats SA, 2025)
While solar tariffs and feed-in rates vary by municipality, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has encouraged more households to participate in private generation to alleviate pressure on national supply.
Solar Performance and Maintenance
To get the most out of your solar setup—and avoid unnecessary wear and tear—good maintenance habits are just as important as proper installation. Here's what our Acting Head of Claims, Biko Phaswana recommends:
Poor maintenance of a solar system can significantly impact its performance.
1. Panels should be cleaned regularly to remove dust and bird droppings.
2. The inverter must be placed in a well-ventilated area.
3. Avoid fully draining the batteries—frequent deep discharges reduce their lifespan.
4. When the system is active, avoid using high-energy consumption appliances such as hair dryers, irons, microwaves, stoves, kettles, and geysers.
Tip: Know how much wattage each appliance uses, and switch to energy-efficient light bulbs to reduce overall load.
By following these simple yet critical steps, you’ll not only improve the performance and longevity of your solar system, but also reduce the risk of claim complications down the line.
A Follow-Up to Fire Risk Awareness
As the iWYZE business, last year we addressed the growing number of fire-related claims in the home, many linked to alternative energy sources. Solar systems, if not properly installed, can pose similar risks. Overloaded circuits, sub-standard wiring, and poor weatherproofing are all red flags. As more households go off-grid, ensuring that your energy solution doesn’t put your home at risk is important.Home
As the winter chill sets in and uncertainty around power supply continues, solar energy remains a bright solution for many South African households. The move towards energy independence may be empowering, but it's just as important to ensure that your solar investment is responsibly installed and properly insured.
At iWYZE, we’re committed to helping you protect what powers your home, choosing accredited installers, securing the necessary Certificate of Compliance, and notifying us once your system is in place, not only safeguards your assets, you’re also ensuring peace of mind when the unexpected happens.
Going solar is more than a smart energy decision; it’s a long-term commitment to safety, sustainability, and resilience. If you're unsure about your current cover or want to review your policy to include your solar installation, our team is here to assist.
#wyzemove: Always submit your Certificate of Compliance (CoC) to your insurer once your solar system is installed. Without it, your claim could be rejected even if the damage is from a covered event.
