Experts warn about a solar-panel theft trend in South Africa.

VAAL TRIANGLE - Energy experts have warned that solar-panel theft is an emerging trend in South Africa that is likely to escalate. Load-shedding has created high demand for solar panels in the black market as homeowners purchase alternative power supplies. Mail and Guardian reports the rapid uptake of solar power solutions, combined with the theft of components, has led to a booming black market trade as most of the dismantled systems are sold as scrap materials or as an alternative energy source.