Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Coastal Solar Africa
Here are answers to the most common questions we receive from customers across Kenya’s coast (Mombasa, Kilifi, Malindi, Diani, Watamu, Lamu, and beyond). If your question isn’t covered, contact us anytime!

General Solar Questions
1. How do solar panels work?**
Solar panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity using photovoltaic cells. An inverter then converts DC to alternating current (AC) for your home/business appliances. Our systems work efficiently in Kenya’s sunny coastal climate.

2. What types of solar systems do you offer?
We provide:
– Off-grid systems (fully independent, with batteries for 24/7 power).
– Hybrid systems (combine solar with grid or generator backup).
– Solar water pumps (borehole, surface, booster).
– Solar air conditioners.
– Portable solar kits and power stations.
– Wind turbine hybrids for coastal windy areas.

3. How much does a solar system cost?
Costs vary by size and type:
– Small home kits (e.g., lights + fan + phone charging): KSh 20,000–80,000.
– Medium home systems (e.g., 1–3 kW with lithium batteries): KSh 150,000–500,000+.
– Borehole pumps or full off-grid setups: KSh 300,000–1,500,000+.
Contact us for a free, customized quote based on your energy needs and location.

4. Do solar panels work during cloudy or rainy days?
Yes! Panels generate power (though reduced) on cloudy days. Kenya’s coast has strong sunlight year-round, so systems perform well even in rainy seasons. Hybrid setups with batteries ensure uninterrupted power.

5. Will my solar system provide power during blackouts?
Yes—if you choose a system with batteries (off-grid or hybrid). Batteries store excess energy for use at night or during outages. Grid-tied systems without batteries stop during blackouts for safety.

Installation & Services
6. Do you offer installation, and is it free?
Yes! We provide free installation with many shop purchases and full systems. Our team handles site assessment, mounting, wiring, and commissioning. For larger/complex projects, we may charge a small fee—quoted upfront.

7. How long does installation take?
– Small kits/portable: Same-day or 1 day.
– Home systems: 1–3 days.
– Borehole pumps or large off-grid: 3–7 days (depending on site prep like drilling).

8. Do I need permits or EPRA approval for installation?
Small residential systems usually don’t require permits. Larger commercial or grid-tied setups may need EPRA (Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority) registration or local approvals—we guide you through this.

9. What areas do you serve?
We serve the entire Kenyan coast: Mombasa, Kilifi, Malindi, Diani, Watamu, Lamu, and surrounding regions. Nationwide delivery available for products.

Products & Maintenance
10. What warranties do your products have?
– Solar panels: Typically 10–25 years performance warranty (manufacturer-dependent).
– Inverters & lithium batteries: 5–10 years.
– Solar pumps: 1–5 years.
– Full system workmanship: 1–2 years from us.
Exact terms provided with your quote/invoice.

11. Do I need to change my appliances or bulbs for solar?
No—most modern appliances work fine. For best efficiency, we recommend energy-saving LED bulbs and appliances, but it’s not required. Our systems are designed for standard Kenyan homes/businesses.

12. How long do solar panels and batteries last?
– Panels: 25–30+ years with minimal degradation.
– Lithium batteries: 10+ years (or 5,000+ cycles).
Regular cleaning and checks extend life.

13. What maintenance is required?
Minimal! Clean panels occasionally (rain helps on the coast), check connections yearly, and monitor via app/inverter display. We offer maintenance packages.

Payments, Returns & Support
14. Do you offer financing or payment plans?
We accept M-Pesa, bank transfers, cash. Flexible payment options available for larger systems—ask for details.

15. What if I’m not satisfied with my purchase?
See our Return and Refund Policy (linked in footer). Defective items covered under warranty; change-of-mind returns accepted within 14 days for eligible unused products.

16. How can I get a quote or more info?
Call/WhatsApp +254 716 842 775, email info@coastalsolar.africa, or use our website contact form. We respond quickly and can arrange site visits along the coast.

Still have questions? We’re here to help power your coastal home or business with reliable, clean energy!