Small businesses have a myriad of obstacles to navigate, not least load shedding. The recent round of blackouts is having a severe economic impact on our country, and unfortunately, there is no light at the end of the tunnel, as Eskom has announced that load shedding will continue for the foreseeable future.
With these electricity cuts of two to four hours at a time, how can small businesses adapt?
We take a look.
The effects of load shedding
First things first, why are small businesses so hard hit by load shedding?
- Unlike larger companies, small businesses are unlikely to have an alternative power supply.
- Many small businesses are heavily impacted by crime during load shedding, as alarms and electric fences are rendered useless.
- Loadshedding often results in power surges which can damage electrical appliances.
Steps to mitigate the impact of load shedding
The ongoing energy crisis is encouraging small businesses to find unique ways of doing things and new ways of powering their businesses and keeping their doors open. From shaping working schedules around load shedding ones to finding offline tasks to do when load shedding occurs, there’s no shortage of innovation.
Here are a few alternative energy sources worth considering:
- Generators
Generators are the best option when it comes to powering an entire building, however, purchase and running costs are high, meaning many small businesses cannot afford to invest in one. To alleviate these expenses, small businesses can also consider renting generators.
- Power banks
Making use of backup batteries and power banks is an affordable way to keep laptops and cell phones powered during load shedding. Although these devices can only be used to charge relatively small devices, they can make a big difference in keeping businesses going and the workforce productive. Batteries can also be used to power up alarm systems, which can help deter criminals.
- UPS
An uninterrupted power supply (UPS) charges while the power is on and can then power your devices of choice, including laptops, lights, and wi-fi routers. What distinguishes a UPS from an inverter is that there is no time delay when the power goes out, meaning your business is always on.
- Surge protectors
Businesses should also consider investing in surge protectors for their appliances and machinery. These prevent surges from damaging plugs and devices. When it comes to industrial-sized equipment it is recommended to speak to an electrician about the options that are available.
While it’s clear that businesses do have some recourse and actions that can be taken to minimise the impact of load shedding, we still advise that small business owners review their insurance policies to ensure that they are covered against the potential risks. This includes damage done to electrical devices by electricity surges, theft, and potential income loss.
If you would like advice on the best way to safeguard your small business against load shedding contact an Indwe advisor on 0860 13 13 14 or visit us online at www.indwe.co.za.