SPRING SUMMER BONUS MAGAZINE 2026

As the sun rises over a guest farm in Mpumalanga and the sound of the Crocodile River echoes through the crisp air, it is the beginning of a new day. The Eskom grid has failed again, but the guest farm operations continue undisturbed, powered silently by a GreenTower solar Energy Security Solution (ESS). For smaller rural enterprises, this level of resilience, once reserved for large scale operations, is now a tangible reality by means of rent-to-own funding for small businesses. The SME energy challenge Rural small to medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly smaller game lodges and guest farms, are navigating a difficult economic environment. Diesel prices remain high and impact significantly on volatility in operating cost when relying on a generator. Furthermore, Eskom electricity tariffs continue to climb, with recent increases of more than 9% and similar hikes expected in future. For these businesses, energy is no longer a background cost; it is a core input that dictates profitability and competitive positioning . However, the primary barrier has historically been the sizeable upfront capital required for high-end solar and battery infrastructure. Tailored financing: The R22 000-a-month solution To bridge this gap, Ordiphase is specifically targeting GreenTower ESS for smaller game lodges and guest farms with a rent-to-own model designed for project sizes that often fall below the radar of major industrial funders. For solutions with a total cost of ±R950 000 excl. VAT , businesses can now secure reliable energy for an initial payment of approximately R22 000 per month (excl. VAT) . This model offers several critical advantages: • Zero upfront capital: Smaller SMEs can preserve their cash flow for core operations rather than infrastructure. • Predictable monthly cost : The fee escalates at 5% per year and is typically below current utility costs, providing immediate relief from volatile Eskom and diesel prices. • Flexible terms: Systems are funded over a 10-year period , after which full ownership is transferred to the client. • Comprehensive service: The monthly payment includes operations, maintenance, 24/7 performance monitoring, and insurance, meaning the business owner never has to worry about technical performance. • Tangible savings: As the monthly fee escalates at significantly below projected Eskom price increases, GreenTower ESS typically saves between 15% and 20% in electricity expenses over the finance term. Advanced technology for smaller loads While these systems are sized for smaller operations with an Eskom maximum notified demand of 50 kVA, they utilise the same award- winning technology as large-scale industrial projects. This includes next-generation 8 000 cycle lithium batteries , designed for efficiency and longevity that are paired with efficient hybrid inverters that have a 10-year warranty. The latest dual glass solar PV modules now Empowering the rural engine: Accessible energy security for smaller lodges and guest farms www.agribonus.co.za Spring/Summer 2026 BONUS 105