Page 17 - IFV_Issue 7_2022

Photo by Vije Vijendranath on Unsplash

to power internet connections, range can get a TG 1500 W sine wave inverter, for example – carry enough power
in price from around R700 to R2 000, which can be charged via mains or to charge your smartphone, tablet,
depending on their capacity. And solar panels and will power bigger computer and small appliances. And
they’re available from most tech appliances. there’s no installation of any kind
specialist retailers. needed because all the power points
4. Got gas? you need are on board. You can pick
3. Small-scale solar Gas appliances are relatively one up at a camping store for between
A solar-powered geyser is a great affordable and come in many shapes R6 000 and R7 000.
start. Getting one installed will probably and sizes. You can pick up a two-plate LED lanterns, also available at most
cost you between R15 000 and R20 000. gas burner stove for under R400 at reputable camping shops, are excellent
But you don’t need to go quite so large most major retailers for basic cooking light sources powered by lithium
to take advantage of solar power. You purposes. Gas lighting is also affordable batteries. Certain brands also come
can do it in smaller ways. and easy to set up. You’ll find loads of with built-in USB ports, which are
Start with the outdoors. Solar lights options online or in camping shops. handy for charging your cell phone.
that soak up the sun in your garden If you want to take it one step And most LED lights are easy to charge
are affordable and readily available at further, consult an expert to see which via USB or (in some cases) they come
garden centres and DIY retailers. You of your appliances can be converted with optional solar attachments.
can also use a touch of solar power to to gas. Certain fridges and geysers, for
keep your TV, computer, cell phone and example, can run on gas. It might be Let the light shine
a light or two on using a small UPS. worthwhile to take stock of everything Other than our load-shedding-
These vary in size and cost. For a you need to power and consider a driven discontent, we South Africans
small, solar-powered 84W/h kit from combination of gas and solar energy if are also known for our resilience and
Ellies (found on loot.co.za), you’re in for you’re on a budget. resourcefulness. With those attributes
around R1 300. This type of unit is good driving us to find simple solutions to
enough for light but won’t power major 5. Go camping complicated problems, we can equip
appliances. Around R700 - R800 more Even if roughing it isn’t really for you, ourselves to set aside the annoyance
will get you a similar unit with enough camping gear can be pretty helpful and take back the power (no, that’s not
juice to charge your laptop. during power outages. Portable power a metaphor)!
For around R3 000 (Takealot), you stations – like the Jackery Explorer 250, It’s the little things that count.

The Villager • Issue 7 2022 • 15