In an ambitious move to tackle the ever-rising energy costs and frequent load-shedding woes, Checkers, the South African supermarket giant, has launched a transformative competition that promises to brighten the lives of 120 lucky winners. Brace yourselves for the Checkers Solar Solution Sweepstakes, a groundbreaking initiative that offers participants a chance to win a comprehensive home solar setup worth over R100,000.
The competition, a first of its kind in South Africa, has caught the attention of energy-conscious consumers seeking relief from the financial burden of escalating energy prices and the frustration of unpredictable power outages. At the heart of this grand prize lies a state-of-the-art Conti Solar Inverter (5.5KW), engineered to optimise energy conversion and ensure efficiency in power consumption.
To weather the storm of load shedding, each winner will receive a Conti Battery (Lithium-ion/LifePo4 48V 100AH), offering uninterrupted power supply during blackouts and keeping households lit and running even when the national grid falters. Harnessing the boundless power of the sun, six high-performance Conti Solar Panels (420W) will be installed to capture the rays and convert them into sustainable, clean energy. The cherry on top? A Conti Wi-Fi module ensures seamless monitoring and control, empowering winners to manage their solar systems with ease. And as if that weren’t enough, Checkers is committed to providing standard home installation, making the process hassle-free for the lucky recipients.
Mike Middleton, Checkers’ Chief Marketing Officer, expressed the company’s excitement about the initiative, stating, “With this competition, Checkers aims to provide 120 loyal customers with some relief from the ongoing challenges experienced with load shedding, as well as an opportunity to experience firsthand the benefits of renewable energy.” This venture is not just a giveaway; it reflects Checkers’ dedication to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship, demonstrating their commitment to both their business and the communities they serve.
The Solar Solution Sweepstakes, running from 24th July to 10th September 2023, provides ample time for customers to participate and amplify their chances of becoming part of the solar-powered revolution. To enter, one needs only to swipe their Xtra Savings rewards card while making purchases at Checkers, Checkers Hyper, Checkers Foods, or Checkers Liquorshop stores, or opt for the digital route using the Checkers Sixty60 app. The more participating brands consumers buy during this period, the higher their number of entries, increasing their odds of securing this invaluable solar package.
Joining the Xtra Savings rewards programme is a straightforward process, with no cost involved and no paper trail required. Aspiring members can easily sign up in-store or choose the convenience of digital channels. A simple “Hi!” sent to +27 87 240 5709 on WhatsApp or dialing 134569*CARDNUMBER# paves the way to Xtra Savings membership. Alternatively, one can register on the official checkers.co.za website, all designed to make the process seamless and accessible for all.
Checkers’ initiative is not just an isolated event but part of the broader sustainability efforts by the Shoprite Group, of which Checkers is a prominent member. The Group has set a commendable target of powering 25% of its operations using renewable energy over the next five years. Impressively, their existing solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity spans 73 sites, generating a staggering 52 million kWh annually. This significant energy production is enough to power 4,826 households for an entire year, making a considerable contribution to easing pressure on the national electricity grid.
Furthermore, Checkers has taken tangible steps to reduce its electricity consumption, installing over 1.1 million energy-efficient LED lightbulbs across 1,623 of its supermarkets and distribution centers across South Africa. This move has led to an impressive 11.8% reduction in electricity usage, exemplifying the company’s commitment to sustainable practices.
The Group’s dedication to the environment extends to their delivery operations, with Checkers prioritising the integration of solar PV on trailers. This environmentally-conscious approach allows drivers to switch off their truck ignitions during deliveries, minimising exhaust pollution while maintaining the integrity of the cold chain. Presently, their fleet boasts an impressive 1,041 trailers equipped with solar PV, setting a benchmark for eco-friendly logistics.
