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By Sona Solar Knowledge & Solar Systems Education Team

On March 27, 2023

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Fake Solar Inverters, Bulbs and Batteries Flood Local Market

An energy expert has warned that fake solar products have flooded the local market. Engineer Nobert Mataruse, a top Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) official, told participants at a recent energy conference that customers must be cautious because the market is awash with fake solar products. The authority will soon embark on a blitz to flush out dealers selling these counterfeit items.

Solar In Zimbabwe - Fake Products Slow Down Solar Revolution!

“In recent months we have witnessed an influx of solar products which are not appropriate,” Engineer Mataruse said. “We will be descending on the culprits at the Gulf Complex (a market in downtown Harare) who are selling fake products."

Common Scams & Issues Identified

Mislabeled Wattage

“There are some unscrupulous dealers who are selling solar panels which are inscribed 300w when in actual effect they only generate 200w or less,” warned Eng Mataruse.

Counterfeit Batteries

Participants noted that in downtown Harare, dealers are selling fake solar panels and associated accessories — especially solar batteries. This poses heavy costs for poor people desperate for energy.

Fake Origins

Experts stated that most fake solar products originate from China, Indonesia, India, Dubai, Taiwan, Thailand, South Africa, and Nigeria. Dealers often use fake labels to mislead consumers.

In-Depth Analysis: The Energy Crisis & Fake Products

Why is Demand Spiking?

Peak winter energy demands, constant breakdowns at Hwange Power Station, falling water levels at Kariba Power Station, and lack of foreign currency to import power have led to rolling power cuts lasting more than 10 hours daily. This has drove up demand for solar energy systems for both domestic and industrial consumption.

Many settlements now receive less than seven hours of electricity per day from the national grid, pushing up demand for home solar systems, firewood, and charcoal.

How Consumers are Being Ripped Off

“Many people are struggling to access energy and without adequate money they often look for cheap solar products,” said an energy expert. “Customers are often asked by dealers whether they want original items or cheap ones. To save money most Zimbabweans go for cheaper ones without knowing that they are fake.”

This leads to conflicts on the market and a loss of confidence in the solar sector. Experts blamed highly porous borders, lax surveillance, and weak control systems for the influx.

ZERA's Response & Testing

“ZERA has taken delivery of a solar testing plant and very soon we will go on a blitz, confiscating all fake solar products,” said Eng Mataruse.

ZERA is doing all it can to raise public awareness. “Very soon we will be going on a campaign across the country. On our website, we have a list of reputable solar dealers and not the dishonest ones we see at the Gulf Complex. We won’t hesitate to confiscate fake solar panels once we start using our solar testing plant equipment.”

Expert Advice: How to Protect Yourself

To avoid heavy losses from under-rated panels or peeling coatings:

Buy from Licensed Distributors: Always insist on buying from registered solar companies that can conduct necessary tests.
Get a Warranty: Genuine products come with a warranty. Monitor your system regularly during this period.
Test the Wattage: Experts encourage clients to do solar panel testing to ensure the wattage matches what you paid for.
Check Physical Defects: Look for defects such as the peeling off of the outer protective coating. Launch complaints immediately if detected.

Avoid the Fakes. Choose Trusted Professionals.

Don't risk your money on fake labels and substandard equipment. Sona Solar Zimbabwe supplies only genuine, Tier-1 solar products backed by manufacturer warranties and professional support.

Whether you need genuine Canadian Solar, Jinko, or JA Solar panels, or reliable lithium batteries from Pylontech, Dyness, or Must, we ensure you get exactly what you pay for.

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