Best Solar & Backup Power Finance in South Africa

Loadshedding turned solar from a nice-to-have into a serious investment for South African households — but a full solar-and-battery system can cost R100,000 or more upfront. The good news is you no longer need that cash on hand: you can finance a system you own, or pay a fixed monthly fee for one you rent. This guide compares the ways to fund solar and backup power.

Own it or rent it?

There are two routes:

• Finance and own — a bank energy loan or a home-loan top-up lets you buy the system. You own the asset (and the savings), and a bond top-up usually carries the lowest rate because it's secured by your home.
• Rent or subscribe — companies like GoSolr install a system and charge a fixed monthly fee, with maintenance and insurance included and little or no upfront cost. You don't own it, but you avoid the capital outlay and the hassle.

Model the loan repayment with our loan calculator, and weigh it against your average monthly electricity bill.

How we chose

We compared bank energy loans, home-loan facilities and subscription providers on cost, flexibility, upfront outlay and what's included. Rates are personalised and subscription pricing is indicative — confirm a quote. Ratings are Rateweb's editorial opinion.

The best solar finance at a glance

• Best no-upfront option — GoSolr. Subscription solar with installation, maintenance and insurance included.
• Best for quotes — Hohm Energy. Designs your system and compares installer quotes and finance.
• Best bank loan — Nedbank Energy Loan. Own your system with green-finance options.

Compare finance types and upfront costs for all the options below.

How to fund solar smartly

• Use a bond top-up if you can — it's usually the cheapest way to borrow because it's secured.
• Compare owning vs renting over the full term — subscriptions are convenient but you don't build the asset.
• Right-size the system to your actual usage so you don't over-borrow.
• Check what's included — installation, maintenance, insurance and a warranty all matter.

Frequently asked questions

Should I buy or rent solar?

If you can finance it cheaply (especially via a bond top-up), owning builds an asset and maximises long-term savings. If you'd rather avoid the upfront cost and maintenance, a subscription is simpler.

Can I add solar to my home loan?

Often yes — a home-loan top-up (if you have equity) usually offers the lowest rate because it's secured against your property.

Does solar finance need a deposit?

Bank loans may require a deposit or credit assessment; subscription options typically need little or no upfront payment. Confirm with the provider.

Next steps

Compare the options below, then model the repayment with our loan calculator. This is general information, not financial advice — your rate is confirmed by the lender or provider.