At a point in time, I planned to organize free training for solar installers because I noticed a growing number of customers were complaining about their solar systems.
You hear the customers say things like
“After about two months of installing my system, it can no longer carry my appliances.”
Initially, I assumed the problem was coming from the installers.
And honestly, if we don’t continuously educate and train solar installers to do things the right way, it’s only a matter of time before people start doubting the entire idea of solar energy.
As a solar installer, there are certain fundamentals you must understand and one of them is proper system sizing.
You need to know how to estimate load accurately and also calculate what we call autonomy or dark days, so that even when there’s little or no sunlight for a few days, the system can still deliver power.
But as I began reaching out and trying to bring some of these installers together for free training, I discovered something else.
The issue isn’t always from the installers.
Many of them have received training and understand what they’re doing.
Of course, there are still gaps in the industry, but a good number of these installers are competent.
The real problem often comes from the customers.
When given a proper quote for a system that’s designed to work reliably and last, many customers say they can’t afford it.
Instead, they choose a cheaper option. One that may only be able to power bulbs, a fan, and charge phones.
But not long after, these same customers begin to complain that the system can’t carry their fridge, pressing iron, or other heavy appliances.
So, why am I saying all this?
I am saying this because the real issue is not just the solar industry.
It’s not just the installers.
And it’s not entirely the customers either.
THE MAIN ISSUE IS AFFORDABILITY.
Many Nigerians want renewable energy, but they simply can’t afford the quality of system they truly need.
This is where the government must come in—to subsidize solar products and systems, making them more accessible and affordable for the average Nigerian household.
And if the government is ready to support this move, we at DEONET ENERGY are ready to assist — to make solar energy more reliable for Nigerians and build lasting trust in clean energy solutions.
