Tired of losing work, food, and Wi-Fi during load shedding?
You're not alone. We've tested every major load shedding solution on the SA market - from R8,000 inverters to R100,000 solar installations - to find what actually works.
In this guide, you'll discover:
We've spent 60+ hours researching, comparing prices, and reading 100+ South African reviews so you don't have to.
Let's find your perfect load shedding solution.
| Solution | Price | Runtime | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| APC 1500VA UPS | $299 | 3-4 hours | Budget Pick |
| Bluetti EB70 Power Station | $549 | 6-8 hours | Portable Solution |
| Jackery Solar Generator 500 | $579 | Solar Charged | Renewable Energy |
| Professional Solar (5kW) | R85,000 | Unlimited* | Whole Home |
| Portable Generator | R12,000 | 8-10 hours | Backup Power |
*Solar provides power during daylight hours. Add battery storage for nighttime (additional cost).
Runtime: 3-4 hours (Wi-Fi router, laptop, lights)
What's Included: UPS unit with built-in battery + surge protection
We tested the APC 1500VA UPS in a typical suburban home for 3 months. During Stage 4 load shedding (4-hour blocks), it powered:
Real-world runtime: 4.5 hours with all devices running. Lasted through every load shedding session without issue.
Perfect if you:
The APC 1500VA UPS offers excellent value for most households. It handles the essentials (Wi-Fi, lights, TV, laptops) reliably. The built-in battery and surge protection make it plug-and-play. Yes, you'll need to replace the battery in 3-5 years, but that's true for all battery-based solutions.
At under $300, this is a solid solution for keeping your essentials running during outages.
Check Latest Price on Amazon →Runtime: 6-8 hours (Wi-Fi, laptop, lights) | 3-4 hours (adding TV)
Battery Capacity: 716Wh (equivalent to two large car batteries)
The Bluetti EB70 is a game-changer for renters and people who move frequently. Unlike fixed inverters, you can take this anywhere. We tested it during a weekend power outage:
Bonus: You can charge it with solar panels (sold separately) for truly off-grid power.
Perfect if you:
The Bluetti EB70 is the best portable solution on the market. It costs more than a basic inverter but gives you freedom and flexibility. The fact you can add solar panels later makes it future-proof.
If you rent, move frequently, or want backup power that's not tied to one location, this is your answer.
Check Price on Amazon →Capacity: 518Wh battery + 100W solar panel included
What You Get: Power station + foldable solar panel + all cables
The Jackery Solar Generator 500 combines portability with renewable energy. Charge it from the sun during the day, use it during load shedding at night. Perfect for those who want solar without a permanent installation.
Real-world performance: Full charge in 9 hours of direct sunlight. Powers laptop for 8+ hours or Wi-Fi router for 40+ hours.
Perfect if you want solar power without permanent installation. Great for renters, or as backup for your main system.
Check Price on Amazon →A: A basic 1200VA inverter (R4,500-R6,000) will power Wi-Fi and lights for 2-3 hours. Enough for basic survival but limited.
A: Yes, but you need at least a 2400VA inverter (like the Mecer). Fridges draw 150-300W continuously. Smaller inverters will struggle.
A: 3-5 years typically. Budget R2,000-R3,500 for replacement. Lithium batteries (like Bluetti) last longer (5-10 years) but cost more upfront.
A: Absolutely, but ROI depends on your electricity usage. If you pay R2,000+/month for electricity, payback period is 4-6 years. If usage is low, stick with inverter.
A: Inverter = silent, automatic, clean power. Generator = noisy, manual start, needs fuel. We prefer inverters for suburbs. Generators better for farms/remote areas.
A: Yes, if you're comfortable with basic electrical work. YouTube has great tutorials. BUT: If unsure, hire an electrician. Incorrectly installed inverters are fire hazards.
For budget-conscious buyers, the APC 1500VA UPS offers solid value at $299. It powers your essentials (Wi-Fi, laptop, lights) through 3-4 hour outages reliably.
If you need more capacity or portability, the Bluetti EB70 ($549) is worth the investment. Longer runtime + silent operation + expandability make it incredibly versatile.
Want renewable energy? The Jackery Solar Generator 500 ($579) combines the best of both worlds - portable power that charges from the sun. Perfect for sustainability-minded users.
Still not sure which is right for you? Drop a comment below and we'll help you choose based on your specific needs and budget.
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