Yes, solar energy is a highly viable option for businesses in South Africa due to the country's sunny climate. In fact, solar power is becoming increasingly popular among businesses seeking to reduce their reliance on the grid and lower their electricity costs and carbon footprints.

The amount that businesses can save by switching to solar energy depends on various factors such as the size of the system, the business's energy consumption, and the cost of grid electricity. However, studies have shown that businesses can save anywhere from 20% to 80% on their electricity bills by switching to solar energy.

Solar panels generally require minimal maintenance as they have no moving parts. However, it is recommended that businesses have their panels cleaned and inspected regularly to ensure optimal performance. In addition, inverters, which convert DC electricity from the panels to AC electricity for use in the business, may need to be replaced after a certain number of years.

Excess solar energy generated by businesses can be fed back into the grid through a process called net metering. This allows businesses to receive credit for the excess energy they generate, which can be used to offset their electricity bills during periods of low solar production. Alternatively, businesses can install battery storage systems to store excess energy for use during times of high demand.