With power cuts extending for nearly 10 hours a day during the last four to five months, the demand for power inverters surged by 25 per cent here this year.
Though the demand has slightly slowed down now, which is normal during this time of the year, the rural market continues too see a high need.
Dealers in the inverter market here say that this summer saw new peak in demand for inverters. The usual months of high sales are during deepavali and summer. The availability ranges from Rs. 8,500 (for just a single light and fan) to Rs. 38,000 (to support 10 lights and 10 fans).
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There are local players who assemble the inverters, apart from major brands. The demand was so high this year that 50 per cent of the requirement was met with assembled sets by many suppliers and there were even waiting periods.
The second-hand sets were not preferred much since longer hours of power cut meant need for batteries that can be charged in short durations.
Hence, several customers who already had an inverter went in for upgraded versions. With power cut continuing in rural areas, the demand comes from rural household segments now.
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Most of the customers look at the cost factor.
They should look at the raw material and the quality of the product too before deciding to finalise a product. This will ensure efficient and longer use, say the dealers.
Further, the need of the household and the capacity of the UPS should be studied and the product should be decided accordingly.
Many go in for more than one inverter because they find a higher requirement after they start using the inverter.