Best of Johannesburg

Power Through It: Backup Energy Solutions for Small Businesses in Johannesburg

Published

4 months ago

May 13, 2025

Chiraag

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If you’re running a small business in Johannesburg in 2025, chances are you’re no stranger to power cuts. Load shedding is still a persistent issue, and staying operational means planning ahead. Whether you’re running a local bakery, design studio, or IT support hub, having a reliable backup power solution can make all the difference between closing early and carrying on as usual.

Here’s a breakdown of smart, cost-effective energy options to help you stay switched on when the grid goes down.

1. UPS Systems (Uninterruptible Power Supply)

A UPS is a quick and easy way to keep your essential devices on during short outages. Think of it as your emergency bridge – it doesn’t run forever, but it gives you enough time to save work, shut down safely, or power through a short blackout.

Best for:

Offices and clinics
Point-of-sale systems
Routers and small appliances

“A UPS is ideal for businesses that just need to keep the basics online without investing in a full system.”

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Image 1: www.gizzu.co.za

2. Generators

Generators are the go-to solution when the lights stay off for hours. Available in petrol or diesel models, they can power up most small to mid-sized operations. However, keep in mind the fuel costs and noise levels.

Benefits:

Handles longer outages
Widely available and scalable
Ideal for businesses with refrigeration, heavy machinery or large energy needs

Things to consider:

Higher operational costs
Requires regular servicing
Can’t be run indoors due to fumes

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Image 2: AGS Solar

3. Solar Power Systems

Johannesburg gets sunshine – a lot of it. Solar is a long-term solution that not only helps you during outages but also cuts your electricity bill.

Two main types:

Grid-tied systems – connect to the main supply and can reduce usage. May need additional hardware to function during load shedding.
Off-grid systems – completely independent of Eskom, offering total self-reliance.

Best for:

Sustainability-focused businesses
Owners looking for long-term savings
Areas with frequent, extended outages

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Image 3: News24

4. Hybrid Power Systems

A hybrid setup combines the best of all worlds – solar panels, battery storage, and a generator for backup. It’s more complex, but also the most flexible and reliable.

Why go hybrid?

Keeps you running even during prolonged outages
Reduces reliance on any single energy source
Can be tailored to your specific power demands

“A hybrid power system might be the smartest long-term investment for Joburg businesses navigating Stage 4 and beyond.”

Also read: https://www.joburgetc.com/johannesburg/survive-load-shedding-johannesburg-2025/

Key Factors to Consider Before You Invest

Budget

UPS systems are budget-friendly.
Solar and hybrid systems have higher upfront costs but save more over time.

Energy Needs

What are your daily kilowatt-hour (kWh) requirements?
List essential equipment to calculate system size.

Level of Backup Required

Do you just need lights and a till, or do you need to run full operations?

Load Shedding Trends

If you’re seeing Stage 4 or 6 frequently, consider a more robust system.

Local Permits and Regulations

Grid-tied solar installations may require a compliance certificate from the municipality or a registered installer.

Other Smart Considerations

1. Go Energy-Efficient

LED lighting, low-power equipment, and smart appliances reduce pressure on your backup system.

2. Maintenance Matters

Generators, batteries, and solar inverters all need regular servicing. Neglect it, and you risk a breakdown when you need them most.

3. Choose Local Support

Buy from a provider with local technicians and support. It’s worth it when something goes wrong.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for backup power, but Johannesburg businesses in 2025 can’t afford to operate without one. The right setup will depend on your daily operations, energy demands, and budget – but having a plan in place means you’re ahead of the game when the lights go out.