Adoption of solar power rises as technology improves and makes it most cost-efficient way to light up homes and businesses
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Solar energy adoption in Nigeria has grown significantly over the past two years, driven by demand for reliable power, affordability, and shifting public perception, according to industry players.
Renewable energy experts said despite challenges, the trend shows that solar energy is positioning itself as a key feature in Nigeria’s energy future, with even greater potential for expansion.
Excellent-Glory Solar System Chief Executive Officer, Felix Adekunjo, said frequent blackouts and grid collapses make alternative energy sources essential, compelling more households and businesses to turn to solar power.
He reiterated that the removal of fuel subsidy and soaring diesel prices make power generators more expensive to operate, therefore, solar energy becomes a cheaper and more sustainable alternative.
“Compared to two years ago, the costs of solar panels, batteries, inverters and other solar components have decreased globally, partly due to advancement in technology and economies of scale. This has made solar systems more affordable for the average Nigerian household and small businesses,” Adekunjo explained, per The Guardian.
“There has been a slight increase in government and institutional support for solar adoption, such as commercial banks’ renewable energy financing schemes like Access Bank’s Switch to Solar project and international partnerships promoting solar energy access.”
According to him, Nigerians who adopted solar energy in the past two years have become advocates for its reliability, particularly during periods of grid failure or fuel scarcity, as word-of-mouth referrals play a key role in encouraging more individuals and organisations to transition to solar solutions.
However, Adekunjo noted that despite long-term savings, upfront installation costs remain a hurdle. Lack of skilled technicians, poor installations and inadequate maintenance by untrained personnel discourage adoption, he added.
He also pointed out that many Nigerians still struggle to afford solar systems due to the lack of flexible payment plans.
“The growth of solar is driven by the rising need for reliable energy, affordability, and a shift in public perception. While challenges persist, the trajectory shows that solar energy is fast becoming the future of energy in Nigeria, with even greater potential for expansion in the coming years.
“As solar merchants, we remain committed to providing high-quality, affordable, and reliable solar solutions to empower Nigerians to take charge of their energy needs.”
Royal Power and Energy Chief Executive Officer, Adewale Odugbesan, said he has observed significant growth in solar adoption since his company launched eight years ago, recounting that when they started, solar energy cost about $3 per kilowatt, but has now reduced to about $0.1 per kilowatt.
But back then, he added, when compared to the cost of grid power and diesel, solar was more expensive.
At the moment, Band A national grid power tariffs cost between N220 and N250 per kilo-watt hour (kWh), depending on location, in contrast to solar which costs about N160 per kWh.
The cost of using a diesel generator is even higher, at between N400 and N450 per kWh, making solar the most cost-efficient way to power homes and businesses.
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