Retail businesses across Southern Africa face an uphill battle when it comes to overhead costs and remaining competitive in a challenging economy. Rising electricity prices and unreliable grid power only add to the strain. Fortunately, solar power offers a practical, efficient, and sustainable solution for the retail sector.

Solar energy is transforming the retail landscape with clear, measurable benefits, according to Lance Green of SolarSaver, a leading solar solutions provider operating throughout Southern Africa. “By harnessing solar power, retail businesses can immediately slash operating costs while securing predictable, low-cost energy expenses for the foreseeable future. Hybrid solutions integrating grid-tied power, solar, and advanced battery storage ensure a clean, stable, and reliable energy supply, delivering uninterrupted operations even during power outages, all while driving substantial long-term savings.

Navigating challenges in retail solar projects

For business leaders, investing in solar energy is a strategic move to cut costs, enhance sustainability, and drive long-term value. For landlords, solar energy is another avenue to generate revenue. ​ Whether funded through bank financing or your company’s balance sheet, the success of this investment hinges on one key factor: delivering the kWh output. “Without consistent system performance, the return on investment you planned for can fall short,” says Green. “Our data at SolarSaver shows that many financed or self-funded solar systems achieve only 40–50% of their forecasted kWh production, even with a service level agreement in place.”

That’s where SolarSaver steps in. “We’re not just about installing panels on a roof. We’re a long term energy provider - ensuring our solar assets perform at their peak, day in and day out. Regular monitoring and maintenance maximises energy output, reduces downtime, and extends the lifespan of the system. This translates to real financial benefits: lower operating costs, reliable energy production, and an ROI that aligns with your business expectations.”

For landlords, business executives and board members, the message is clear: your solar investment is only as strong as its upkeep. “Partnering with SolarSaver means protecting your bottom line and ensuring your system delivers the results you promised your stakeholders,” Green says. 

SolarSaver’s flexible, client-first approach to address business concerns has made the company a trusted partner for over 750 businesses, with over 130 MW of solar installations across Southern Africa. Its expertise spans various industries, with notable successes in the retail sector. Clients include major retailers like Spar, OK and Pick n Pay, as well as large-scale mixed-use developments and major malls such as Westgate, Pavilion, Melrose Arch and Menlyn Park Shopping Centre.

SolarSaver has enabled Pareto Group to harness a significant amount of solar power from over 18 MW installed across Pareto's various malls. Installations at The Pavilion Mall, Menlyn Park Shopping Centre and Southgate Mall now include solar carport systems, providing more shaded parking for visitors while generating additional energy for mall operations. ​ 

SolarSaver’s broader portfolio within Melrose Arch includes 15 systems totalling over 3000 kWp producing over 6 000 000 kWh per annum, offsetting over 30% of the precinct’s power. 

Evaluating solar options and costs 

Retail businesses can choose from several solar options depending on their needs and budgetary considerations. 

Grid-tied systems are connected to the electricity grid and provide cost-effective solutions for reducing dependency on costly grid power during the daytime. These systems work well for shopping centres with consistent daytime energy demand. Businesses are charged only for the power the system produces. ​ ​ ​ 

Battery Energy Storage Systems ( BESS) ​ Include battery storage alongside solar panels for uninterrupted power during power outages and load shedding. Stored energy can also be used to reduce peak loads though peak shaving and used for arbitrage. ​ These systems provide operational continuity for retailers needing to operate at night, or during outages and loadshedding. ​ SolarSaver charges a set monthly rate for these systems. 

“The retail sector is well positioned to benefit from solar solutions,” says Green. “With SolarSaver's capex-free, hassle-free model, businesses can adopt cleaner, more reliable energy without the financial risks or operational headaches. It's time to rent the sun.”