So, you’re thinking of going solar. Great choice! You’re not just joining a global energy revolution—you’re also taking a bold step toward dodging outrageous electricity bills and those sudden power cuts that always seem to happen when you’re blending pepper or watching your favourite show.
In Nigeria, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) oversees solar panel installations under frameworks like the Mini-Grid Regulations 2016, Feed-In Tariffs for Renewable Energy Sourced Electricity Regulations 2015, General Licensing and Operational Requirements, and the Nigerian Electricity Supply and Installation Standards (NESIS). Also, don’t forget: your solar gear must be certified by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON). No shortcuts here, your panels must be legit.
But before you start dreaming of cutting the cord with your DisCo, here are five things you should seriously consider:
1. Is Your Roof Even Solar-Worthy?
Before anything else, look up, literally. Is your roof sun-kissed or shaded like a picnic under mango trees?
If your rooftop spends most of its time in the shadows, then your solar panels will be chilling in the dark too. Shade from trees or nearby high-rise buildings could drastically limit solar energy collection, making your expensive investment. Well, not so bright.
Also, is your roof structurally sound? If it’s sagging like a tired old mattress, think twice. A weak roof today could mean having to uninstall and reinstall the panels later, and trust me, your wallet won’t thank you.
And if you’re renting, don’t skip the fine print. Some tenancy agreements allow solar panels, but with conditions. For instance, mine says I must indemnify the landlord in case of accidents from “improper installation.” Basically, if something goes wrong, it’s my headache. So yes, read the agreement, even if it bores you to tears.
2. Have You Done Everything to Reduce Energy Waste First?
Going solar without first checking your energy consumption is like buying a fancy blender when all you really need is a spoon.
Before sizing your solar setup, do an energy audit. Switch to energy-efficient appliances, seal drafty windows, and ditch that ancient freezer that hums like a generator. If you’re lucky enough to be on a Band A feeder with near-constant power, your solar needs may actually be less than you think.
Basically, trim the fat before ordering the steak.
3. Which Solar Tech Is Right for You?
There are two major solar energy technologies:
- Photovoltaic (PV): Converts sunlight directly into electricity.
- Solar Thermal: Uses the sun to heat water or air for use inside the house.
In Nigeria, PV is the Burna Boy of solar tech, hugely popular and widely used. But if your home gulps hot water like jollof at a wedding, solar thermal could save you loads long-term. Consider your needs, not just what’s trendy.
4. Can You Share the Solar Love with Others?
If your roof isn’t suitable, or your landlord says “no thanks” to rooftop panels, don’t worry—you’re not out of the game.
Enter shared solar or community solar. Under NERC’s Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO), DisCos are encouraged to invest in embedded generation, including a portion from renewable energy like solar. Some DisCos now offer shared solar programs, especially in commercial estates and ring-fenced areas.
You might not have your own personal panels, but you’ll still be powering your fridge with sunshine, just at a slightly higher tariff. Check with your DisCo for the nitty-gritty; offers vary by location.
5. Can You Trust Your Solar Installer?
Listen, this isn’t the time for “my cousin knows a guy” arrangements.
Solar installation involves real electrical work. Get a certified, experienced installer. Ask for their credentials and check them. And if your installer shows up in flip-flops with no tools? Run.
Some unconfirmed reports even link dodgy installations to house fires. So yes, ask questions. Lots of them. As someone once wisely said, “What sense does it make to hire an electrician who has never done actual electrical work?”
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve considered these questions, you’re ready to go deeper into the solar journey. Remember: sunlight is free, but solar mistakes are expensive. Plan wisely.
