Frequently Asked Questions

Battery arbitrage is the practice of charging a battery during low-cost, off-peak electricity periods and discharging it during expensive peak tariff periods. The difference in tariff rates creates a direct, measurable rand saving on every electricity bill.

No. A battery can charge from the grid during off-peak periods and discharge during peak entirely without solar. That said, combining solar with battery storage maximises financial performance by reducing what you draw from the grid in the first place.

They improve. As electricity tariffs rise, the rand value of each kWh shifted from peak to off-peak increases proportionally. Battery arbitrage becomes more valuable as grid electricity gets more expensive.

Yes. Discharging the battery during peak periods reduces the kVA demand your site draws from the grid. For clients constrained by their NMD allocation, this can unlock effective additional capacity without a costly grid upgrade.

Yes. Forest Energy structures PPAs and financing solutions that allow you to access a battery system with zero upfront capex. In most cases, the monthly finance cost is lower than the monthly electricity saving, making the project cash flow positive from day one.

We focus on the commercial, industrial, and agricultural market in the 100 kW to 10 MW range. If you have a meaningful electricity bill and operations that depend on reliable power, we are likely a fit.

End-to-end. We handle site assessment, system design, engineering, installation, commissioning, monitoring, and ongoing maintenance. One point of accountability throughout.

A Power Purchase Agreement allows you to access a solar or battery system with no upfront capital. Instead of buying the system, you pay a fixed rate per kWh for energy generated or saved. It suits businesses that want immediate savings without a capital outlay, though total lifetime cost is higher than an outright purchase.

The two key inputs are your electricity tariff structure and your consumption profile. If you are on a TOU tariff and have high peak demand, the financial case is usually strong. Forest Energy conducts a no-obligation assessment using your meter data and municipal account to give you a clear answer.