In an era where energy efficiency and grid independence are becoming increasingly critical, South African technology company Rubicon has developed a groundbreaking solution for water heating that's transforming the renewable energy landscape.
“This solution is innovative because it intelligently optimises solar PV energy for water heating, reducing grid reliance by up to 60%,” explains Ruan Smith, national sales head: Apex, Group Services. “It retrofits easily, requires no plumbing changes, and offers remote control via ApexOS. Unlike competitors, it self-adjusts in real-time, maximising savings whilst ensuring continuous hot water availability.”
Innovation in energy management
At its core, the APEX SGS is an intelligent control system that revolutionises how standard electric geysers, boilers, and hot water systems harness solar energy. What sets this system apart is its sophisticated approach to energy management – rather than simply monitoring temperature, the APEX SGS considers multiple factors to make intelligent decisions about power source selection, consistently prioritising solar power over grid electricity when both are available.
"The 60% reduction in energy use per annum on our SGS hot water system is based on an optimised combination of Solar PV energy and intelligent energy management, which is determined by the behaviour of hot water usage," says Smith.
This significant reduction translates to annual savings of 3,500–4,500 kWh, resulting in cost reductions of R9,000–R12,000 for the average user, depending on hot water usage patterns.
The intelligence behind the system
Central to the APEX SGS's capabilities is the ApexOS platform, which serves as the system's brain. Through this operating system, users gain access to comprehensive monitoring capabilities via the APEX fleet monitoring platform. The system provides detailed insights, including energy flow visualisation, temperature control, and usage patterns through an intuitive web app interface.
Users can exercise precise control over their water heating systems, including:
- Setting custom temperature setpoints;
- Defining specific time periods to avoid grid power usage;
- Choosing between grid and PV energy sources;
- Monitoring real-time system performance; and
- Accessing historical data and usage patterns.
Installation and compatibility
One of the APEX SGS's most practical advantages is its compatibility with existing infrastructure. The system can be retrofitted to most geyser cylinders in the market without requiring plumbing modifications, making it an accessible upgrade for both residential and commercial properties. Installation is straightforward enough that qualified electrical contractors can complete it with minimal specialised training.
Regulatory compliance and market recognition
The APEX SGS has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first and only system of its kind to be approved by the City of Cape Town for installation on its network. This approval underscores the system's compliance with stringent safety and performance standards, setting it apart from uncertified alternatives that may pose safety risks and insurance complications.
“Using uncertified alternative products that do not meet industry standards and regulations poses significant safety, financial, and operational risks,” confirms Smith.
The system also meets the South African National Standard 10400-XA:2021 requirement, which mandates that at least 50% of household hot water production must come from non-grid sources. This compliance positions the APEX SGS as a future-proof solution for South Africa's evolving energy landscape.
Local manufacturing impact
Rubicon's commitment to local manufacturing of the APEX SGS carries significant implications for South Africa's renewable energy sector. Beyond creating jobs and supporting local suppliers, this approach helps combat the challenge of imported products being sold below production cost, which often undermines local industry development.
Large-scale applications
The system has proved particularly valuable for residential estates where hot water availability is crucial. The ability to schedule energy use and control heating times ensures consistent hot water availability whilst minimising energy costs. Even during loadshedding or in off-grid locations, the system continues to produce hot water, providing essential operational resilience.
Looking ahead
As South Africa continues to grapple with rising electricity costs and grid reliability challenges, the APEX SGS represents a significant step forward in sustainable energy solutions. Its combination of intelligent energy management, user-friendly control systems, and proven energy savings positions it as a leading innovation in the water heating sector.
For businesses considering renewable energy solutions, the APEX SGS offers a compelling package of benefits: substantial cost savings, improved energy independence, and advanced monitoring and control features, all backed by local support and regulatory compliance. As the renewable energy sector continues to evolve, solutions like the APEX SGS demonstrate how innovative technology can address both environmental and economic challenges whilst supporting local industry development.
