Shocking news about solar energy: what experts says

With the rising cost of electricity and frequent power outages, many Nigerians are turning to solar energy as an alternative power source.

It is widely promoted as a cost-effective and sustainable solution, offering reduced electricity bills and greater energy independence.

However, beneath the benefits, there are hidden costs that many consumers fail to consider before making the switch.

Cost of Installation

One of the biggest challenges of adopting solar power in Nigeria is the high initial cost of installation.

A standard solar system for a three-bedroom home can cost between ₦3 million and ₦10 million, depending on the capacity, quality, and installation fees.

Many Nigerians assume that buying solar panels alone is enough, but additional costs for inverters, batteries, mounting frames, and professional installation add to the total expenditure.

Even with government incentives, the upfront cost remains a major barrier for many households.

Maintenance and Repair

Unlike the national grid, which is maintained by power distribution companies, solar systems require regular servicing to function efficiently.

In dusty environments, panels need frequent cleaning to maintain optimal energy production.

Additionally, inverters and batteries have limited lifespans.

Most inverters need replacement every 5 to 10 years, while batteries, especially lead-acid types, require regular maintenance and eventual replacement.

These extra costs can add up over time.

Weather Limitations and Reduced Efficiency

Nigeria enjoys abundant sunlight, but solar power generation is not always reliable.

During rainy seasons, harmattan periods, or on cloudy days, power generation drops significantly, forcing users to rely on backup generators or the national grid.

Furthermore, solar panels degrade over time, losing efficiency at a rate of 0.5% to 1% per year.

After 15 to 20 years, a solar system may only generate 80% of its original capacity, leading to higher energy costs in the long run.

Expensive Battery Storage

For Nigerians who want 24-hour electricity, a battery storage system is essential to store power for use at night.

However, lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries are expensive, with high-capacity batteries costing millions of naira.

Battery lifespan is also a concern, as high temperatures reduce efficiency and shorten lifespan.

Without a proper battery system, many solar users still depend on the national grid at night, leading to additional electricity costs.

Space Constraints for Installation

Installing solar panels requires adequate space, either on rooftops or open land.

In densely populated cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, many homes lack enough roof space for sufficient solar panels.

For businesses or factories, large-scale solar farms require extensive land, leading to land-use conflicts and high leasing costs.

This makes solar expansion difficult for urban dwellers with limited space.

Recycling and Disposal Challenges

At the end of their lifespan, solar panels and batteries become electronic waste, posing a serious environmental risk.

The process of recycling solar panels is complex and costly, involving hazardous materials like lead and cadmium.

In Nigeria, where proper waste disposal systems are limited, discarded solar batteries and panels can lead to chemical pollution, affecting soil and water sources.

Solar energy remains a valuable alternative to unreliable power supply, but it is not as cheap as it seems.

The hidden costs of installation, maintenance, efficiency loss, and battery storage make it a long-term investment that requires careful planning.

Before switching to solar, Nigerians must consider all costs involved, compare different products, and seek expert guidance to avoid unnecessary financial burdens.

While solar power offers clean energy and reduced dependence on generators,

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