1. Ordering, Stock & Trade Accounts

How do I place an order online?

Placing an order is straightforward:

  1. Browse our online catalog and select your desired solar PV modules, inverters, batteries, or balance-of-system (BOS) electrical components.

  2. Add items to your cart and proceed to checkout.

  3. Choose your preferred delivery method or select local warehouse pickup.

  4. Select your payment method (Instant EFT, Credit/Debit Card, or Bank Transfer) and finalize your transaction.

  5. Once payment is confirmed, your order moves to warehouse staging, and you will receive tracking updates via email/SMS.

Do you offer wholesale or trade pricing for installers?

Yes. Registered electrical contractors, SAPVIA/PV GreenCard accredited installers, and commercial contractors qualify for trade pricing and bulk tier discounts. To apply, submit your company registration details, VAT registration (if applicable), and installer accreditation through our Trade Portal.

Can I amend or cancel an order after payment?

  • Before Warehouse Dispatch: Orders can be modified or cancelled prior to dispatch by contacting our support team immediately.

  • After Dispatch: If the items have already left the warehouse, the request will be processed under our standard 7-Day Return Policy (subject to return transport costs).

2. Technical Compliance & Safety Standards

Do I need a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for my installation?

Yes, absolutely. Under South African law (SANS 10142-1 Electrical Installation Regulations), any grid-tied, hybrid, or off-grid high-voltage electrical installation must be signed off by a registered electrician or accredited installer who will issue an official Electrical Certificate of Compliance (CoC).

Important Notice: Operating high-voltage inverters or lithium battery banks without a valid CoC voids both your manufacturer warranties and your property insurance coverage in the event of an electrical fire or surge damage.

Can I install these systems myself as a DIY project?

While low-voltage DC accessories and plug-and-play kits can be set up independently, all high-voltage AC/DC equipment (inverters, battery banks, PV array combiner boxes) must be installed by a qualified electrician or accredited solar technician. Sol-Africa Solutions disclaims all liability for damage, voided warranties, or safety hazards resulting from uncertified DIY wiring.

What surge protection is required for my solar installation?

To comply with SANS standards and retain full warranty coverage, your setup must include:

  • DC Surge Protection Devices (SPD): Installed on every incoming PV string at the combiner box/inverter input to protect against atmospheric lightning and induced voltage spikes.

  • AC Surge Protection: Installed at the main DB board and output sides to protect equipment from grid-switching transients during load-shedding cycles.

3. Shipping, Warehouse Collection & Freight Risk

What are your delivery options and transit times?

  • Standard Freight: 2 to 5 business days for major metropolitan areas (Gauteng, Durban, Cape Town, Gqeberha).

  • Regional Freight: 5 to 7 business days for outlying or remote areas.

  • Warehouse Self-Collection: Free collection from our main hub during business hours once you receive a Ready for Collection notification.

How are dangerous goods like lithium batteries shipped?

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are categorized as Dangerous Goods (UN 3480 Class 9). We route all battery shipments through certified hazmat freight handlers equipped for safe, compliant transport.

What should I do if my shipment arrives damaged?

  1. Inspect Before Signing: Inspect the outer packaging thoroughly before signing the courier waybill.

  2. Note Damages on Waybill: If you spot crushed boxes, broken glass on PV modules, or pallet damage, explicitly note "Received Damaged" on the delivery sign-off document.

  3. Notify Us Within 48 Hours: Take clear photos of the damaged items, packaging, and waybill, and email them to our support team immediately so we can open a transit insurance claim and arrange replacements.

4. Payment Methods & Financial Security

What payment methods do you accept?

  • Instant EFT: Secured via accredited gateways (PayFast, Ozow, Peach Payments).

  • Credit & Debit Cards: Visa and Mastercard transactions secured via 3D Secure authentication.

  • Direct Bank Transfer (EFT): Manual transfers directly into our primary bank account.

Why hasn't my manual EFT order been dispatched yet?

Manual bank transfers require manual clearance. Goods are only released for warehouse staging once the funds fully reflect in our bank account. Proof of Payment (POP) emails do not trigger stock release. If you need instant dispatch, we recommend using Instant EFT or Card payment at checkout.

5. Warranties, Returns & Cooling-Off Period

What is your standard warranty policy on products?

All products sold by Sol-Africa Solutions carry official manufacturer warranties:

  • Tier-1 Solar PV Modules: Typically, 10–12 years product warranty, 25–30 years linear power output warranty.

  • Hybrid & Off-Grid Inverters: Typically, 2 to 5 years manufacturer warranty (subject to CoC and adequate surge protection).

  • Lithium (LiFePO4) Batteries: Typically, 5 to 10 years (or specified cycle life, e.g., 4000–6000 cycles at 80% DoD).

What is the statutory cooling-off return period?

Under Section 44 of the Electronic Communications and Transactions (ECT) Act, you have a 7-day statutory cooling-off period from the date of receipt to cancel an unused order.

  • Items must be unopened, in their original packaging, and undamaged.

  • The customer is responsible for return courier charges unless the item arrived defective or incorrect.