Solar Panel Price in Nigeria 2024

Due to the frequent power outages and high cost of traditional electricity in Nigeria, many people are seeking an alternative source of power, which has given rise to demand for solar panels.  

Over time, the increasing use of solar panels to generate electricity for homes and businesses has become a norm in Nigeria and, of course, can be attributed to the increase in solar panel prices in Nigeria.

It is noteworthy that anyone who would invest in this kind of energy will want to know what the cost covers.

This writing will explore, in detail, solar panel prices in Nigeria, what influences the prices of solar panels, and how solar energy systems are bridging the gap in the country.

Solar Power System in Nigeria

Solar power is a vital answer for many households and businesses in Nigeria, where the power is not reliable. The general solar power system consists of photovoltaic panels, an inverter, batteries, and other components.

These all work in unison to harness and convert sunlight into usable electricity.

Interest in solar energy in Nigeria has risen for many reasons. People are seeking alternative and more dependable forms of energy.

• Electricity is Expensive: Grid power is very costly, making solar energy seem a better deal in the long run.
• Environmental Precautions: Solar energy is clean, renewable energy that helps to decrease carbon footprints, aside from environmental effects.

How Much Does a Solar Inverter Cost in Nigeria?

The costs vary greatly depending on the type, size, and manufacturer of a solar inverter. Solar inverters play a vital role in any solar power system by converting the DC generated into AC consumed by home appliances.

1. Type of Inverters: Three main solar inverters are string, microinverters, and hybrid inverters. Each has a different price variety:

• String Inverter: These are the most common; generally, their prices are within the bracket of ₦80,000 and ₦300,000, depending on the capacity.
• Microinverter: On average, this is a little more expensive—it costs ₦120,000 to ₦400,000—but it provides panel-by-panel performance enhancement.
• Hybrid Inverters: Their prices can be as varied as ₦150,000 to ₦500,000 since they combine the functions of a solar inverter with those of a battery charger.

2.  Capacity: Another thing that affects the price of an inverter is its size, primarily measured in Kilowatts (kW). That would be more expensive, though, because that would be larger capacity inverter solar installations, the kind that would be suitable for larger applications or businesses.

How Long Does a Solar Panel Last in Nigeria?

Solar Panels are supposed to be very durable and last a long time. The life expectancy of solar panels in Nigeria, on average, is between 25 and 30 years, but that depends on many factors.

1. Panel Quality: High-quality panels from good manufacturers are more durable. Their warranties, ranging from 10 to 25 years, prove their strength.
   
2. Climate and Weather Conditions: Of course, solar panels thrive in sunny climates like Nigeria, but extreme weather conditions like pouring rain or sandstorms lessen their performance over time.
   
3. Maintenance: The solar panels will last longer because of the constant upkeep that could be done while cleaning them and checking for any type of wear and tear.
   
4. Installation: When a professional installation by a certified technician is performed, the panels are mounted correctly and work at their highest capacity to endure for a longer period.

Solar Panel Prices in Nigeria

Solar panel Prices in Nigeria fluctuate considerably depending on the type, brand, and capacity. So, for the year 2024, this is the estimate of their prices:

1. Monocrystalline Panels: These panels are highly efficient and sleek looking. Depending on the wattage, they are priced between ₦40,000 and ₦100,000 per panel.
   
2. Polycrystalline Panels: These are less efficient but cheaper, ranging from ₦30,000 to ₦80,000 per panel.
   
3. The thin film panels are the rarest in the Nigerian market, and they range from ₦20,000 ₦60,000 per panel. These panels are not as efficient and may be used for special purposes.
   
4. Installation Costs: Not only the real cost but also installation charges. Depending on complexity and location, that will cost anywhere from ₦50,000 to ₦150,000 for installation.
   
5. Full Solar Systems: 300,000 naira and up for a complete solar system with panels, inverters, batteries, and installation, 2,000,000 plus. The overall cost depends on the system’s size and the quality of the parts.

Take a look at the detailed breakdown of solar panel prices in Nigeria, taking into consideration the various factors influencing the costs.

1. Types of Solar Panels and Prices

There are numerous solar panels, and they all have different prices depending on their efficiency, materials, and technology. Following are the most common types and their approximate prices in Nigeria:

Monocrystalline Solar Panels:

Made from a single crystal structure, these panels achieve high efficiency and have a catchy look.

• Price Range: Mono-crystalline panels are generally costlier, upward of ₦40,000 to ₦100,000 per panel, depending on the wattage and brand.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels:
These panels are fabricated from more than one silicon crystal. They are less efficient than mono-crystalline panels but relatively cheaper.

• Price Range: Polycrystalline panels cost between ₦30,000 and ₦80,000 for each panel.

Thin-Film Solar Panels:
Thin-film panels, on the other hand, are less frequent. In such panels, the photovoltaic material is usually deposited as layers on a substrate; therefore, it is relatively less efficient, flexible, and lightweight.

• Price Range: Thin-film panels range from a cost of ₦20,000 to ₦60,000 per panel.

2.  Solar Panel Prices by Capacity
Solar panels come in different capacities, measured in watts. The capacity you may need depends on the demand for electricity at your place. Here’s a rough quote depending on the capacity of the panel:

250W Panels:

• Price Range: ₦35,000 to ₦50,000 per panel.
• Use Case: It is suitable for small to medium installations, such as those used to power a few household appliances or supplement grid electricity.

300W Panels:

• Price Range: ₦40,000 to ₦60,000 per panel.
• Ideal Use Case: Perfect for medium-scale solar installation, which offers more power to keep extra appliances running.

350W to 400W Panels:

• Price Range: ₦50,000 to ₦80,000 per panel.
• Ideal Use Case: These are ideal for large-scale installations which support large energy demands, such as keeping many appliances running or a small business running.

Other Costs
In installing a solar power system, one must consider other costs aside from the panels themselves:

Inverters:

• Price Range: ₦80,000 to ₦500,000. This depends on the type of inverter required: string, micro, or hybrid. Besides the type, the capacity is another determining factor. Inverters are for conversion into AC, used by household appliances from the DC generated by the panels.

Batteries:

• Price Range: ₦100,000 to ₦800,000. The type and capacity are essential in this regard; examples of the types are lead-acid and lithium-ion. These batteries help store energy when sunlight is inadequate to run the equipment.

Mounting and Installation:

• Price Range: ₦50,000 to ₦150,000, depending on the complexity of installation and the location.

Factors Influencing the Costs of Solar Panels

Many factors influence the cost of solar panels in Nigeria. These include:

Brand and Quality: Generally, high-efficiency panels by reputable brands are more costly but promise longer warranties.

Supply and Demand: Supply and demand determine prices. Where there is a high demand for solar panels, prices appreciate.

Exchange Rates: Changes in the currency exchange rate affect the price due to much importation of solar panels.

Local Market Conditions: Prices can change based on local market conditions and depend on how well the solar products are

Which Solar Panel Can Carry a TV?

When choosing any solar panel system for powering up your television, first of all, understand that the panel is only a part of the solar power system; it also involves an inverter and the battery system. Let’s explore it further;

1. TV’s Power Consumption:

Know how many watts your TV consumes. This information can usually be found on the device itself or in the user’s manual. For example, an average-sized LED uses about 50 to 100 watts, while a large plasma can use anywhere from 200 to 400 watts or even higher.

2. Solar Panel Capacity:

Solar panels generate power in disjointed amounts, usually expressed in watts. The panels range in size from 250 watts up to 400 watts and above.

You do not need a super high-capacity panel to run a TV. For a TV drawing 100 watts, for instance, a 300-watt panel would be just fine, presuming that the panel is part of a well-designed system.

3. Designing the System:

Apart from the solar panel, your solar system should include a suitable inverter and battery. The inverter capacity should be such that it caters for or exceeds the power needs of your TV and other appliances you want to run.

For instance, a 300-watt panel connected to an inverter with a similar or higher capacity can run a TV and additional small devices.

4. Daily Energy Needs:

Remember how much energy you consume daily. Solar panels yield energy depending on the amount of sun they get. Make sure your system has enough panels and batteries to provide for your daily needs, including your TV and other gadgets.

How Long Do Solar Panels Last?

The solar panels are designed so that their durability is retained and they can serve for an extended period. The average life span of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Now, let us talk about the factors affecting the lifespan of solar panels:

1. Quality of Panels: High-quality panels made by reputed manufacturers typically last longer. They offer a warranty period of up to 10 to 25 years to assure their quality statement.

2. Climate and Weather Conditions: Solar panels are designed to withstand the actions and conditions induced by various weather conditions.

Solar panels usually perform well in Nigeria, where the sun generally stays high. Still, extreme conditions such as a heavy rainstorm or very high temperatures over a prolonged period could reduce a solar panel’s life span.

3. Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the panels and checking for damage, also greatly contributes to the panels’ life of operation. Normally, a well-maintained panel outlives the predicted one from calculations.

4. Efficiency Degradation Rate: Solar panels lose efficiency over time. Most are considered to degrade at about 0.5 per cent to one per cent annually, meaning they can produce quite a good amount of electricity even after several decades.

Do Solar Panels Work at Night?

No, solar panels do not work at night. Here is why:

1.    These panels are dependent on sunlight to operate. This means that they convert sunlight into electrical energy and cannot generate electricity without the sun.

2.   Noon-time Generation: Solar panels are thought to produce maximum electricity when the sun is out at noon. To perform their function efficiently, they require direct sun exposure.

3.   Storage Solution: Most solar systems are designed with batteries that store the energy produced during the day so that they may be consistent in their power delivery. This stored energy can then be utilized at night or on days when sunlight is low.

4.   Alternative Solutions: Solar energy systems must be complemented by solar panels and a good battery storage solution for constant power. Some are designed to have power from the grid or backup generators constantly.

Read More to know Your Complete Guide to Solar Panel Maintenance

How Many Solar Panels Can a House Require in Nigeria?

Various factors contribute to the uncertainty of the number of solar panels that can power a house in Nigeria. Such factors include the size of the house, the number and type of appliances used, and the household’s aggregate energy consumption.

Here are some rough ways to go about calculating how many solar panels you may want:

1.  Calculate Your Energy Requirements:

• Total Energy Consumption: This is the total energy consumption of your household, usually quantified within a unit of measurement of kWh. You may use your previous year’s electricity bills to find the monthly average, or you may install an energy meter.

2. Solar Panel Output:

• Panel capacity: Solar panels’ capacity ranges from 250 W to 400 W. Generally, the combined wattage and number of panels will determine the overall output of your solar panels.
  
• Daily Solar Irradiance: In Nigeria, you might get at best 4 to 6 peak sun hours per day, which would determine the amount of energy you would get from your panels.

3. Estimate the Number of Panels:

• Basic Calculation: If, for example, your house consumes 1,000 kWh a month that would be about 33 kWh a day. Assuming peak sun hours per day come at an average of 5, then that 300W solar panel will generate approximately 1.5 kWh daily (300W × 5 hours = 1,500 Wh or 1.5 kWh).

You would need something in the line of 22 panels to satisfy 33 kWh a day: 33 kWh ÷ 1.5 kWh per panel ≈ 22 panels.

4. System Design Considerations:

Apart from panels, it is required to use inverters and batteries for good power with no breakdowns. This inverter should be able to match the solar panel capacity and store enough energy in its battery for the no-sun period.

5. Quotation for Professional Installation:

A solar energy provider would best provide the actual quotation suitable for your particular needs and requirements. They would do the proper assessment and suggest the number of panels required to support the appliances in your house.

What Appliances Cannot Be Operated with Solar Power?

While most household appliances can be supported by solar power, a few high-power ones, especially specialised ones, are trickier. Below are some examples of appliances that might not be well matched with the solar power systems:

1.  High-Energy Appliances:

• Air Conditioners: Large air conditioning units use much power, and small to medium-sized solar systems can’t keep up the pace.
  
• Electrical Ovens and Stoves: Most of them consume a lot of electricity, and may not be compatible but with a very extensive solar installation.

2. Industrial Equipment:

• Heavy Machinery: Equipment used in industry or business could well require more power than a standard residential solar system can offer.

3. High-Power Tools:

• Power Tools: Electric saws and drills require high power and are not ideal for small-capacity systems.

4. Less Efficient or Older Appliances:

• Older Appliances: Some appliances may be older and less energy-efficient, drawing more power and creating more demands on the solar power system.

5. Specialized Equipment:

• Medical Equipment: Certain medical equipment may need constant power or backup systems of another nature.

Explore to see 16 Questions You Should Ask your Solar Installer

Can Solar Panels Work Without Direct Sunlight?

While it is essential to know how solar panels work without direct sunlight, one must bear in mind that solar panels are far from being in maximum efficiency.

1.   According to this theory, a photovoltaic setup can generate electricity on overcast and cloudy days, even with lower efficiency than sunny days, for they can acquire the diffused sun rays passing through the clouds.

2.   Poor Light Conditions: Panels operate in poor light conditions, including the early morning and evening hours. Under these conditions, though, they can generate very little energy.

3.   Efficient Technology: Solar panels are becoming more efficient, and even with a certain level of diffused light, they can convert it into electricity. Although their efficiency decreases, they continue to work.

4. Battery Storage: Most modern solar systems today are installed with batteries that ensure power is available at any time of the day when sunlight may not be available.

Extra energy produced during sunny times is stored in a battery for use later when the sun is not out.

How Often Should the Solar Panels Be Cleaned?

How frequently the solar panels are cleaned would depend upon the local environmental conditions and other elements that may come in the way regarding dust and debris in that area. General guidelines include:

1. Regular Cleaning Schedule:

• Every 6 to 12 Months: In most instances, solar panels should be cleaned every 6 to 12 months. This ensures their efficiency and upkeep at their best.

2. Environmental Factors:

• Dust and Debris: If the area is highly prone to dust, pollen, or even bird droppings, then cleaning will need to be more frequent. In that respect, the panels could be cleaned every 3 to 6 months.

3. Advantages in Rainfall:

• Natural Cleaning: Rainfall cleans off a lot of the dust and debris on top of your panels, reducing the frequency you would have to clean them by hand. However, this factor may not work for very dusty areas.

4. Inspection and Maintenance:

• Routine Cleaning: Routinely inspect your solar panel systems for any visible dirt, damage, or obstruction. If there is considerable buildup or decreased performance, this will indicate a need for cleaning.

FAQs

Conclusion

Solar panels are a worthy investment for many Nigerians, who tend to seek reliable alternative sources of energy. If a good system is put in place and maintained properly, solar panels could have long-term benefits, ranging from reduced bills to a greener environment.

Knowing the price of solar panels in Nigeria, along with the cost of various components such as an inverter and batteries, will help in making an informed decision about whether to invest in this source of energy.

References 

• earthbond.co-solar panel prices in Nigeria
• coprices.ng-Solar Panel Price in Nigeria
• pricesnow.com.ng-Solar Panel Price in Nigeria
• gve-group.com-Solar Panel Price in Nigeria

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