Further utilization of the solar energy resource in the country. Presently, the major applications of solar energy in South Africa are in solar photovoltaics, solar CSP and solar water heating. However, there are other possible applications of solar radiation which are relatively underutilized but can be beneficial to South Africa.
A South African solar map (Fig. 5) shows the solar energy resource potential in the country. According to the Global Solar Atlas developed by the World Bank Group in association with Solargis, the total solar energy potential in South Africa is enormous, albeit the irradiation differs across different regions.
Fluri et al., studied the potential of concentrating solar power in all provinces in South Africa. The study considered factors such as sunshine levels, proximity to existing transmission lines, local terrain and the ecosystem of the proposed sites.
1. High-Efficiency Solar Panels: A Robust Solution Tandem and perovskite solar cells, alongside traditional silicon solar cells, are the latest pivotal technological advancements for South Africa. These high-efficiency panels capture a broader spectrum of sunlight, converting more solar energy into electricity.
3. Bifacial Solar Panels: Maximising Energy Production Bifacial panels can capture sunlight from both their front and back sides. It’s an innovative way to maximise energy production in South Africa’s sunny climate. This technology is particularly beneficial in urban areas where space for solar installations might be limited.
The overall estimated generation capacity potential of South Africa was put at about 500 GW especially if the solar resource in the Northern Cape can be effectively utilized. Table 5. List of installed CSP technologies in South Africa . 7.3. Solar water heating