Browsing by Author "Terblanche, Rolien"

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    Assessing effectiveness and reliability of current solar systems implemented in residential units
    (2026) Chapara, Tafadzwa; Terblanche, Rolien
    In South Africa, the surge in the adoption of solar home systems, driven by frequent load shedding, has resulted in an influx of companies engaged in the sales and installation of these systems. A notable challenge has emerged as varying lifetimes of solar home systems among different installation companies indicate potential quality issues. The main challenges in the operability of solar home systems stem from two primary issues: incorrect design and installation, and system reliability. These issues are primarily caused by inaccurate load estimation and limited expertise in solar power systems. The study aims to determine the challenges homeowners face owning solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in residential settings across South Africa. The study aims to interview nine homeowners with a PV system and includes responses from twenty individuals who completed questionnaires. The data will be analysed using thematic analysis to generate theory-building findings. Semi-structured open-ended questions were asked. The study found several key challenges faced by residential solar system owners in South Africa. Installation and setup difficulties are prevalent, with many systems being installed incorrectly and not optimized, leading to excessive reliance on the grid. Technical and equipment issues further impact system performance. Other challenges are financial and operational, user experience and understanding, support, and service. This study is limited by a small sample and an interpretivistic philosophy. Future studies should focus on testing a larger number of systems regarding reliability and cost-benefit. Understanding solar operational unique challenges and reliability issues in this context can pave the way for tailored policies and initiatives. Addressing the challenges of solar systems contributes to the shift from traditional energy practices and this evolution is essential for modernizing residential energy solutions. Finally, if reliability is addressed, then the cost-benefit could be a more accurate calculation, which is critical in project management. While the benefits of solar panels are well known, it is unknown if the installed systems are living up to the desired practical and cost-saving expectations, due to the lack of experts in the field.
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    Examining the challenges to the adoption of solar energy technologies by subtropical fruit producers in the Tzaneen Region in Limpopo Province
    (2026) Chauke, Hlulani; Terblanche, Rolien
    This study explores the barriers to the adoption of solar energy technologies in the subtropical fruit producers operating in the Tzaneen region Limpopo Province South Africa. The objective of this study is to identify the barriers to solar technology adoption in agriculture. Fruit producers were used as a sample, and interviews were conducted with eight producers to provide qualitative data and validate the experiences and perspectives of the producers themselves. The findings also identify several significant barriers including substantial initial costs, insufficient technical support and lack of awareness about available subsidies. Moreover, socio-economic factors and reliance on the national grid inhibit movement to renewable energy sources. Producers acknowledge the potential long-term benefits of solar energy; however acute financial limitations continue to pose a substantial obstacle to its adoption. With this study, the knowledge of renewable energy usage in agricultural practices has advanced which will offer helpful information for decision-makers and rural extension services. This underscores some of the unique challenges faced by Tzaneen region producers and reflects the need for tailored supporting mechanisms that can promote sustainable energy use and ultimately strengthen agricultural resilience and sustainability.