Innovations in solar energy, such as off-grid energy solutions company Blockpower’s Blackbox, an energy management system (EMS), allow for energy savings and cost-efficiency, as well as system longevity for households, businesses and heavy-duty industries, says Blockpower engineering head Timothy Mahlangu. An EMS offers several benefits, including optimising surplus solar energy through intelligent hot-water control solutions and managing high inrush consumption by staggering equipment startup. This is particularly appropriate for South African households and hospitality industries, as it helps ease the load on the national grid, which is frequently unable to keep up with increasing demand and ensure the timely provision of electricity.