Prof. Eli Jidere Bala, Director-General/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) stated to The Nation Newspaper. That we can achieve Nigeria’s goal of accelerating economic growth at a rate between 11% & 13%; through the exploitation of alternative sources of energy. He added that utilizing an alternative source of energy is essential. Especially to the country’s goal of being one of the top 20 economies in the world by 2020. Solar, wind, biomass, hydropower, ocean wave, tidal, and geothermal are a few such alternative energy sources. They are crucial to Nigeria’s economic growth.

In the same vein, Mrs. Abimbola Fashola. The wife of the former Governor of Lagos State, asserted that due to their environmental friendliness. There has never been a better time to adopt alternative energy sources. She suggested that Nigeria should investigate the possibility of turning garbage into energy through the State Ministry of Environment. Where waste is used to create power in various markets. She claims that alternative energy sources are not only more affordable and healthier but also have access to raw resources.

According to Dr. Ogbonnya Onu, Minister of Science and Technology, the Federal Government is actively looking into an alternative source of energy. According to Onu, his ministry is promoting research and study innovations in wind energy, biomass energy, solar energy, and hydropower. This is so that the nation may utilize resources that will not be depleted over time. Also, he continued by saying that Nigeria needed to diversify its energy supply. Hence, he pointed out that one area in which the nation had a huge edge was renewable energy. Onu, said that the investigation of renewable energy cannot only produce jobs but also increase wealth and lessen poverty in rural regions.

Dr. Ayoade Adewopo also stated in a statement published by the PUNCH Newspaper. This was after he gave a lecture at a roundtable conference on “Sustainable Development for Nigeria: Factors militating against her progress and the way forward”. He maintained that one of the main causes of Nigeria’s economy’s failure to expand is insufficient power generation. This is due to the electricity problem harming local enterprises and impairing the livelihoods of peasant farmers, craftspeople, and market vendors. Meanwhile, these individuals ought to have been actively advancing the nation through their activities.

Read Also: The Best Source of Energy

He suggested that the Federal Government should de-regulate the energy industry. Also, provide the states with the freedom to produce and research any alternative source of energy. Which could be solar, wind, biomass, coal, hydro or gas, to aid their populations’ consumption on their terms and at their speed. Additionally, in Nigeria, experts have emphasised how renewable energy sources can satisfy the nation’s energy demands. While simultaneously fostering economic growth and minimising environmental effects.

Furthermore, by 2026, the annual worldwide demand for biofuels is expected to have reached 186 billion litres. This was according to the Director General, who spoke on behalf of the Deputy Director of NABDA, Dr Shakirat Ajenifuja-Solebo. By comparison, the demand for biofuels increased by 28%. Also, Abdullahi Mustapha, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Biotechnology Development Agency, spoke about the number of biofuels predicted to be consumed in 2030. Saying it is 45% made up of wastes, residues, and special crops that did not compete with food crops.

Hence, Mustapha pointed out that Nigeria may achieve self-sufficiency in the domain of alternative source of energy. Especially if it could sustainably utilise indigenous bioenergy capacity and relevant technologies like biotechnology. He continued by saying that this will reduce carbon emissions and improve the nation’s trash management.

More so, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), expressed his viewpoint on The Cable. He urged Nigeria and other African nations to invest in alternative source of energy for growth. He also said that using alternative energy sources may aid in reducing poverty, enhancing energy security, and halting climate change. Massive expenditures should be on a variety of energy sources, such as gas, hydropower, and large-scale solar arrays. So, this will assist industrial mini-grids to concentrate electricity in industrial zones. It will also help to guarantee reliable baseload power for companies, and direct power preferentially to industries.

Anu Ogunro, on Business Day Nigeria has argued for the adoption of alternative energy sources like solar and wind power to address Nigeria’s energy demands. In contrast to conventional sources like oil and gas, he contends that solar and wind power are more ecologically benign and sustainable. Thus, He has demanded an improve in government assistance for the growth of alternative source of energy in the nation. Anu, also said that incentives and regulations that promote investment in renewable energy can help Nigerians innovate and build new employment. He thinks renewable energy technology can aid in bridging Nigeria’s energy access gap and lessen reliance on the national grid.

Final Note

The utilisation of alternative source of energy is becoming more crucial as the globe struggles to address issues. Such as climate change, energy security, and sustainable development. Experts in Nigeria are increasingly in agreement that spending on alternative energy sources can help promote innovation, provide employment opportunities. As well as expand access to power in both urban and rural regions.

To overcome the obstacles to the adoption of alternative energy sources. However, there are still many obstacles we need to address. Such obstacles include the need for greater research, funding, and government backing. Ultimately, we need a coordinated effort from decision-makers, industry leaders, and society as a whole to make the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy system in Nigeria easier and possible.

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According to a Peter Uzoho story on This Day Nigeria; solar energy has the potential to increase the nation’s energy security and lower carbon emissions. From a review of Nigerian Primary Health Centres (PHCs) using solar energy, prenatal care coverage has increased by 60% to 70%. Also, vaccination waste has decreased by 40% to 60%. The analysis also found that students’ study hours increased by over 200 percent. Additionally, the quantity of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) teaching hours increased by 30% at public boarding secondary schools in Nigeria. Specifically, those with solar-powered equipment.

The study also revealed that farmers that used solar-powered cold storage decreased post-harvest loss (PHL). This is for perishable commodities by as much as 30%. According to the report, Nigeria’s government should prioritise enhancing the rules governing solar in our daily life. They should also encourage private investment, and make sure that infrastructure is in place to enable the expansion of solar energy.

Do you know how much Solar cost? Find out the solar bill in Nigeria

Also, in his opinion, Tolu Oyekan, Managing Director and Partner, BCG (West Africa), and Head of BCG Nigeria. Made mention that Nigeria can produce more than 600 GW of solar energy. Which is more than 100 times its existing capacity to produce electricity. So, adding solar in 18,000 Primary Health Centres that do not currently have access to dependable electricity might boost the availability of prenatal care. With enhanced refrigeration, vaccination waste might be cut by as much as 20%, down from current levels of 50 to 70 percent of pregnant women.

Toju Okanlawon, Vice President of the Women in Renewable Energy Association. Told The PUNCH that renewable energy was the present and the future of energy in sub-Saharan Africa and Nigeria. According to her, as much as solar in our daily life is essential. It has been demonstrated to be more important to women. This is because if there is no energy in the home, the woman is more affected.

As a result, she is to be in charge of finding power alternatives as the mother in the household, which can place a lot of burden on her. She can affect the lives of the people in her house, though, if she has access to the energy. Women in renewable energy are committed to this main goal. In her words, Toju said that they were collaborating with rural women to help them get energy.

Moreover, she stated the importance of solar in our daily life, noting that the energy has the potential to revolutionise Nigeria’s energy industry. As well as offer a long-term solution to the country’s power shortage. In her opinion, if given the chance to grow, the solar business has the potential to offer millions of young people work.

Read about the advantages of solar energy

According to a Don on Vanguard Nigeria, Prof. Adenike Boyo, the importance of solar in our daily life cannot be overemphasised. Hence, the problem of Nigeria’s epileptic fuel and power supply might be solved by switching from petroleum. Plus, other energy sources to solar power. She claims that this is the case due to Nigeria’s average yearly solar energy consumption of 1,831.06TWh. Otherwise around 1.082 million tons of oil. According to calculations, this is almost equivalent to 13,000 times the daily output of natural gas based on energy units. Plus, around 4,000 times the present daily production of crude oil.

Moreover, the Chief of the Electricity Division of PPC Limited. Engr. Kelechi Onuigbo stated on Independent Newspaper Nigeria that adopting solar in our daily life is very important. According to him, solar energy is essential to achieving the goals the federal government has set for the energy transition. Hence, to achieve the nation’s energy transition goals, it is crucial to address the threat posed by the most recent trend of the importation of subpar solar panels.

Also, in emphasising the impact of solar in our daily life. He asserts solar energy can drive irrigation systems and used to irrigate crops in rural regions. This results in higher agricultural output and revenues. Moreover, we use solar energy in small businesses to power their operations, save expenses and boost profitability. Cities and municipalities utilise solar-powered waste management systems to turn garbage into electricity. This contributes to lessening environmental damage and generating new cash.

Engineer Prof. Ma-Riekpen Edekin Evbogbai, a former Dean of the School of Engineering at Edo State University. Voiced his viewpoint in The Nigerian Observer. He said that Nigeria has the highest energy deficit in the world due to the high percentage of the population without access to power. He suggested that practical applications for solar in our daily life include rural electrification of small, remote communities, water pumping, drug. Also, vaccine storage in health clinics, remote transmitter power for telecommunication, protection of oil pipelines, television viewing, and street lighting.

He also said that we use solar energy for home heating and solar water heaters. We use solar heat to produce food, textiles, warm greenhouses, swimming pools, and livestock barns, among other things. Moreover, we can use solar energy to power technical devices and for cooking. In rural parts of Nigeria, solar-powered base stations power mobile phone networks, opening up previously unreachable areas to communication services.

Conclusion

The use of solar in our daily life is very important. Also, Nigeria has a lot of potential for solar energy and may use it to a great extent for its rising energy needs. Solar energy is a renewable and sustainable energy source that we can utilize to power buildings and even automobiles. The usage of solar in our daily life is spreading, from rooftop solar panels to solar-powered appliances. Hence, Nigeria can become a leader in the usage of renewable energy in Africa with the correct policies and investments.

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Prof. Chinedu Nebo, a former Minister of Power, gave a speech at the Nsukka College of Engineering’s 15th Herbert Macaulay Memorial Lecture. “Reviving an Effective Electricity System for Sustainable Development in Nigeria” was the topic of the speech.  So, he said that Nigeria’s location in the tropics, where it receives a lot of sunshine, gives it a lot of potential for solar energy. Therefore, to realize this potential, he also stressed the importance of solar innovation in Nigeria. Therefore, he urged the country to make investments in solar technology and infrastructure.

According to a study published in Premium Times by Delta State University lecturer Ikponmwosa Oghogho. He stated that “With solar energy, Nigeria can access roughly 1500PJ which is the equivalent of 258 barrels of oil from solar energy per year. We can achieve this by employing solar equipment with a 5% conversion efficiency over just 1% of the nation’s entire land area. This is for around six months out of the year.” This shows that deeper research into the solar value chain may lead to increased power output. Hence, to ensure the energy future of our economy, Mr Oghogho argued that, Nigeria has to reinvent herself by investing in this important resource.”

The CEO of Ergo Renewable Solar Energy, Consul Akpakwu, also talks about solar innovation in Nigeria. He claims that adequate illumination in the workplace boosts productivity by enabling workers to focus for extended periods. Bad and epileptic lighting can affect a worker’s or student’s productivity at work by impairing vision from a functional standpoint. So, this causes depressive feelings from a psychological and emotional perspective.

Read also about: The Blockchain Solar innovation

He pointed out that the country’s reliance on insufficient traditional power systems has made Nigeria’s power crisis compel the search for dependable lighting options as a substitute. According to him, organisations with constant electricity experience a boost in productivity on both a functional and psychological level.

Moreover, the President of the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN), Segun Adaju, urged for increased solar innovation in Nigeria, in a 2019 piece published in The Guardian Nigeria. He pointed out that solar energy in Nigeria has a lot of untapped potentials and that it can give millions of Nigerians who lack access to electricity access to energy.

The Executive Director of the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP), Dr Yusuf Suleiman, has emphasised the significance of off-grid solar solutions in Nigeria. Particularly in rural regions where access to energy is restricted. Moreover, he has underlined the necessity of laws and rules that promote investment in the industry. He firmly  believes that solar innovation in Nigeria should be upheld to improve people’s standards of living.

Professor Adeola Adenikinju, an expert in energy economics, argued for the adoption of creative financing structures to boost solar innovation in Nigeria. This was said in a 2019 essay that was published in The Guardian Nigeria. He claimed that to finance the growth of the solar sector, Nigeria must embrace innovative funding techniques like crowdsourcing and green bonds.

Furthermore, he said that there was a significant gap in access to power between rural and urban populations. So, that this situation would make it challenging to grow the domestic economy and combat poverty and unemployment. Also, for rural electricity, he opines that it is important to reduce job overlap. Hence, public-private collaborations in rural power provision should be emphasised. The speaker also established the fact that the government must devote more funds to supplying power in rural areas.

Ifeoma Malo, the Country Campaign Director for Power for All in Nigeria and CEO of the Clean Technology Hub-Energy Innovation Center. He stated that “Power is life in many ways.” With solar innovation in Nigeria, citizens can study more effectively, hospitals can keep life-saving medications without challenges.

Find out how we can use Solar in our daily life

Also, markets can remain open for longer, and small enterprises and industries can develop there. When we use power to access the wealth in our rural areas, Malo predicted that economic growth would increase. Additionally, Malo said that the scenario might potentially provide a huge market opportunity for off-grid renewable energy. She claimed that the problem of rural electrification was growing in scope.

Sahara Power Company’s Group Managing Director, Dr Kola Adesina, also highlighted the potential for solar energy to meet Nigeria’s energy concerns. He said this on Business Day Nigeria. In his opinion, to spur solar innovation in Nigeria, he has also underlined the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors. He discussed how Nigeria’s solar innovation has to be driven by creative business models.

Also, he emphasised the significance of creating business plans that are specific to the Nigerian market. That can offer both rural and urban areas cost-effective and dependable solar solutions. He also stressed the necessity of government assistance for solar innovation in Nigeria. Specifically measures that encourage the use of solar energy and infrastructure spending. Inorder to promote solar innovation in Nigeria, he urged for more cooperation between academics and the corporate sector. Also, he has underlined the value of Investment in research and development in the industry.

Conclusion

Solar innovation has a huge potential to change Nigeria’s energy landscape. Solar energy offers a promising answer to the nation’s energy problems given the country’s abundance of sunshine. Plus, the need for dependable and economical energy sources. Although there have been obstacles to solar energy acceptance and implementation in Nigeria. Current developments in technology and governmental regulations are fostering a more conducive climate for the country’s solar innovation to flourish. Solar innovation has the potential to boost Nigeria’s economy, expand access to power. Additionally, lessen the consequences of climate change with ongoing funding and support.

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Blockchain is a new technology that offers a secure distributed ledger platform for easy transactions. Furthermore, it enables new opportunities that benefit sectors by increasing transparency, enhancing security, and making traceability simpler. On the other hand, solar power is a sustainable energy source that you can use to create electricity without releasing damaging greenhouse gases.

Also, it is a decentralized, secure, and transparent manner of storing and exchanging information. A more effective and open energy system is produced using blockchain technology in conjunction with solar technology. Additionally, solar energy systems built on blockchain technology may be able to help with some of the major issues the energy industry is now dealing with. Such include helping to lower carbon emissions, enhancing energy security, and fostering better access to and affordability of energy.

Blockchain is not just legitimately upending a variety of businesses, but it also looks very hopeful. The system has gotten about $200 million from the huge IT company IBM. Also, almost 60% of African and Nigerian firms are heavily investigating blockchain possibilities. Reputable ICT professionals believe that blockchain technology has the potential to change several industries, including government, research, banking, insurance, and personal identity security.

With the advent of the blockchain protocol, it is now possible to create an auditable, encrypted ledger that can record energy consumption, and credit histories (which are important when accessing financing). Also, it can now facilitate energy trading between households, giving consumers more control over their energy needs and consumption.

Find out about: Solar Innovation in Nigeria

Also, peer-to-peer energy trading using blockchain technology enables solar energy producers to sell surplus energy to their neighbors directly. Thereby, cutting out the middleman (such as energy corporations) entirely. So, this makes it easier for Decentralized Autonomous Organisations (DAOs) to be formed. Thus, allowing them to control and manage solar energy installations with a greater sense of community ownership.

Blockchain specialist, Chimezie Chuta, a Country Director at Paxful Inc., discusses the potential of blockchain solar technology to expand access to power in Nigeria. He stated in an interview from 2018 that a peer-to-peer energy market where people may exchange energy credits. Which might be developed using blockchain technology. The implementation of blockchain technology, he added, “will provide openness, close gaps, and assure efficiency in the energy industry.”

Furthermore, the generation, distribution, and consumption of solar energy might be revolutionised by blockchain technology. The Academic Director of the Lagos Business School’s Sustainable and Inclusive Digital Financial Services Project, Professor Olayinka David-West also supports. In an article that Caleb Ojewale published in 2017 on Business Day Nigeria. She discussed the potential of blockchain solar technology to expand Nigerians’ access to electricity. Also, she suggested that we can build a decentralised energy system using blockchain technology. Which is more dependable and effective? She believes that blockchain solar technology can help Nigerians gain access to electricity and establish a safe and open energy market.

In an exclusive interview with This Day Nigeria Uzoma Dozie. The founder and CEO of Sparkle, a digital microfinance institution licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Also, the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), made some observations about the potential for blockchain solar technology. This is solely to support financial inclusion in Nigeria. He points out that blockchain-based energy systems might support the expansion of the economy in rural regions by enabling access to financial services for those who are now without it.

Moreover, it might offer a more effective approach to controlling energy supply and demand. While lowering the expenses and administrative load associated with conventional energy distribution networks. In the same vein, the Vice President of OneWattSolar in Lagos, Victor Alagbe, has stressed the value of blockchain in fostering trust and transparency in solar energy transactions. He contends that the decentralised structure of blockchain technology can aid in the eradication of fraud in the solar energy industry.

He added that the application of blockchain technology in solar energy systems may make it simpler to guarantee that we can use energy in a sustainable way. With blockchain-enabled solar panels, he contends that communities may produce and distribute their power. So, this is without the need for costly grid infrastructure. Moreover, he said that blockchain solar technology can aid in resolving Nigeria’s problem of energy poverty. As a result of this, communities and people can access cost-effective and dependable solar energy solutions. Thus raising their standard of life and promoting economic growth.

Furthermore, the CEO of BudgIT Nigeria, Joseph Agunbiade, has discussed how blockchain solar technology might help Nigerians have better access to electricity. In an interview with Guardian Nigeria, he asserted that “Blockchain technology will revolutionise Nigeria’s energy sector.” Particularly in terms of decentralising power distribution and expanding access to electricity in rural regions. Moreover, people and organisations may easily trace the production and distribution of solar electricity. So, using blockchain technology, it assures there is openness and accountability. Solar panel owners may monitor the operation of their panels. Also, you can get paid for producing solar energy by utilizing blockchain technology. This encourages people to buy solar panels and advances the development of renewable energy.

Conclusion

In Nigeria, where many people still lack access to dependable and inexpensive electricity, blockchain solar technology is a relatively new and novel method of expanding energy availability. Blockchain solar technology’s uptake and success in Nigeria depend on several variables, including governmental regulations, infrastructural expansion, and general public knowledge and education. This innovation combines the usage of solar panels with blockchain technology to let people trade energy in a decentralised marketplace. The conclusion is that by combining blockchain technology with solar energy systems, we may be able to create a more reliable and secure energy infrastructure that is more resistant to cyberattacks and system failures.

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Thus, stakeholders have given the government and pertinent agencies the job of researching solar energy to increase the nation’s electricity production. They decided in a workshop that Rubitec Nigeria Ltd and Jinko Solar jointly organized in Lagos. Bolade Soremekun, the Chief Executive Officer of Rubitec, encouraged Nigeria to emulate nations. Countries such as France and Germany that use solar energy to increase a reliable supply of electricity. He also mentioned that using solar energy in Nigeria was more cost-effective for developing the country. In his speech, Bolade, said that it was important for raising people’s standards of living.

In addition to Bolade’s statement, David Arinze, a solar engineer, says the usage of solar power is steadily gaining ground in Nigeria. He claims that many Nigerians who utilize solar energy are aware of its benefits. Moreover, solar energy is also used to power a few institutions in Nigeria. Communities all around the country that are off the grid also rely only on solar energy systems to power their homes.

In David’s opinion, installing a solar system may be a wise investment that is low-risk, and contributes to long-term cost savings. As compared to more conventional investments like equities and bonds, purchasing a solar system pays for itself within three to five years. Plus, it comes with a Return on Investment (ROI) of at least 20%.

Furthermore, Ikponmwosa Oghogho stated that “Since solar energy in Nigeria has numerous advantages when compared to conventional fuel. Plus, there are recent giant strides in improving solar cell efficiency. Then using a photovoltaic (PV) device that converts 40.8% of the light that strikes it into electricity is more economical. Then, for the economy’s energy future to be secured, the nation “has to reorient herself by investing in this priceless resource.

As part of our attempts to maintain an off-grid market for renewable energy, Nigeria must use its enormous potential. To produce and even export components for solar energy systems, such as panels and inverters. At a send-forth interactive session with stakeholders held in his honour in Abuja, renewable energy expert and outgoing Chief Executive Officer of the energy company All-On, Dr Wiebe Boer, gave this advice while speaking on the theme: “Foundational Bricks for a Successful Off-grid Market.”

Luckily, the government has recognised the potential of solar energy in Nigeria and saw it as part of its COVID-19 economic recovery strategy. It would concentrate on building out its solar power infrastructure. By 2030, the government wants to produce 30% of the nation’s power from renewable sources, which include solar energy.

Also see: Types of Solar Products

In an interview with Guardian Nigeria, Kola Adesina, the Group Managing Director of Sahara Power Group. Also stressed the necessity for Nigeria to switch to renewable energy sources, such as solar. He stated that Nigeria has a lot of solar resources and that solar energy is getting cheaper. However, due to a variety of obstacles, including a dearth of necessary infrastructure, expensive up-front expenses, and insufficient rules and regulations to assist the growth of solar energy, the nation has not yet fully realised this potential. He believes that to lessen its reliance on fossil fuels, the nation has to take advantage of this trend.

Prof. Chinedu Nebo, a former Minister of Power in Nigeria, stated on Business Day Nigeria that the solar energy in Nigeria potential is “immense and could fuel the country’s electrical demands as well as sell to neighbouring nations.” He adds that “Nigeria has to provide legislative and regulatory frameworks.         That stimulate investment and growth of the industry to create an enabling environment for solar energy investment.” Vera Nwanze, the General Manager of Azuri, also asserts that solar energy in Nigeria may lower poverty rates for those who reside in rural regions. While also halting climate change. She said that solar energy, has replaced kerosene and candles, and offers clean, sustainable, and economical access to power.

Prof. Magnus Onuoha, National Vice Chairman of the Renewable Energy and Energy Sufficiency Association (REEEA), asked the government at all levels to increase investment in renewable energy. His reason was because it’s a substitute source to increase the nation’s supply of electricity. Additionally, Nigeria’s energy mix might benefit greatly from solar energy. Hence, to stimulate the use of solar energy in Nigeria, the government must offer incentives and subsidies.

The Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP) stated that, “Solar energy provides Nigeria with the chance to deliver electricity to its distant communities. Which are not currently covered by the national grid. However, the government must foster an atmosphere that encourages investment in the industry. Hence, it is important to note Nigeria might produce up to 1,575 Megawatts of power by using it. The research also noted the several impediments to the development of the solar business in the nation. Such as a dearth of favourable regulatory and policy frameworks and restricted access to funding.

Additionally, for individuals and companies in Nigeria, solar energy can deliver dependable and economical power. It can assist in addressing Nigeria’s ongoing issues with energy availability. This can be made possible because solar energy is especially well-suited to the country’s environment. Hence, to ease the nation’s electricity shortage, The Nigerian Renewable Energy Association (NREA) has promoted the usage of solar energy. The organization has urged the government to develop regulations. That would aid in the development of the nation’s solar energy sector.

Conclusion

With the immense wealth of solar resources, Nigeria has a huge possibility to become a large solar energy producer. Olumide Fatoki, Executive Director of the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP). Therefore emphasized the potential of solar energy to enhance energy access and assist economic growth in Nigeria. He has urged more funding for solar development and projects, particularly in remote places with little access to power.

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Ademola Adesina, the CEO of Rensource Energy, a Nigerian solar company. He made a comment on the difficulty of accessing finance for solar projects in Nigeria. He has noted that banks are often reluctant to lend to solar companies and that this makes it difficult to scale up solar projects.  Babatunde Fashola, the Minister of Electricity, Works, and Housing, also referred to the necessity for adequate regulation of the solar business. To prevent the importation of defective and dangerous solar equipment. In 2018, he emphasised the problem of Nigeria’s few financial choices for renewable energy projects. He said that the price of solar panels was still too high for the majority of Nigerians. He stated that a lack of funding is to blame for the difficulties in adopting solar electricity in isolated and rural locations.

In 2020, at the National Solar Energy Forum (NASEF), Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, the Minister of Science and Technology, said that the growth of solar energy in Nigeria faced considerable obstacles due to a lack of infrastructure, such as grid access. In a similar vein, according to Dr Akindele, the majority of solar goods in Nigeria are of low quality and don’t last very long, which has deterred many individuals from making investments in solar energy. “The absence of suitable infrastructure makes it difficult for solar energy firms to install and manage their systems. This hampers their profitability.” Mr Segun Adaju, the Nigerian Renewable Energy Association’s president, makes this assertion.

Thus, in an interview with Guardian Nigeria in 2020, Prof. Eli Jidere Bala, Director-General of the Nigerian Energy Commission. He noted that the lack of political will and commitment to the development of renewable energy was a big concern in Nigeria. Together with the issue of insufficient technical skills and capability in the solar business. He also mentioned the lack of legislation and incentives that would boost renewable energy projects.

Also see: The Advantages of Solar Energy in Nigeria

Ifeanyi Orajaka, who is the CEO of Green Village Electricity Projects Ltd. He made a highlight on the lack of skilled personnel as a major problem for solar energy in Nigeria. Ifeanyi also noted that there is a shortage of trained technicians. People who can install and maintain solar systems, and that this is hindering the growth of the industry. Segun Adaju further stated that the public knowledge of solar energy and its advantages is still poor. So, many people still think that solar energy is just for the privileged.”

Also, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) stated in a report. Which says that backup power sources are necessary since solar energy isn’t so reliable due to its unpredictability. While solar energy is a potential alternative for Nigeria. Prof. Wumi Iledare of the Nigerian Tribune stated that “the fundamental difficulty for solar power is its intermittency, which makes it less reliable as a source of energy”.  Moreover, the authors of a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). They state that “Variability in solar PV output presents a challenge to system operators. As they must balance the erratic nature of solar energy with that of other sources of power to maintain a reliable and stable electricity supply.”

Furthermore, Oluwole Daniel Adeuyi, a renewable energy specialist, stated in an interview with Off Grid Nigeria. He said that “Maintenance is a huge issue with solar energy installations in Nigeria.” Also, he contends that elements like dust, and temperatures results in solar panels less performance over time. The authors of a report by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group also has a statement about the disadvantages of solar energy.  They mentioned that the lack of qualified workers for solar power initiative maintenance is a major challenge in Nigeria. Additionally, fixing problems solar energy system components can become more challenging as a result.

More so, in a report by Yusuf Akinpelu on Premium Times. Yusuf said, “In Nigeria, maintaining solar energy systems requires a significant time and financial expenditure.” Akinpelu emphasised the importance of routine maintenance to maintain solar panels operating at their peak efficiency. However, he also recognised the difficulty this would provide in a nation with little infrastructure and resources. So, this may poise as one of the disadvantages of solar energy in Nigeria.

The ex-CEO of Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency, Damilola Ogunbiyi, also mentioned the country’s expensive solar energy systems as an issue. She stated, “We need to reduce the cost of solar down to a level where people can afford it. Innovative financing techniques that let customers pay overtime are necessary.” This is what Fizzle Power Tech aims at providing; a budget-friendly solar innovation technology.

In Business Day Nigeria, Stephen Onyekwelu also said that adopting solar energy technology is challenging due to the high cost of these systems. We must figure out how to lower the cost of solar energy”. Hence, with this, there will be no disadvantages of solar energy in Nigeria.

According to Dr Abubakar Sambo, the head of the World Energy Council’s Nigerian National Committee. Land usage is one of the main obstacles to the implementation of large-scale solar projects in Nigeria. This is because of the fact that huge solar facilities need substantial amounts of land. This can be challenging to acquire in many regions of the nation. According to Sambo, the country’s energy industry face difficulties as a result of uneven policy development.

Sam Amadi, who is a former Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission. He commented on the lack of a clear policy framework for solar energy in Nigeria. Furthermore, he cited this as one of the disadvantages of solar energy in Nigeria. He has called the government to provide incentives for solar projects and to streamline the regulatory process. As Land tenure difficulties, especially conflicting land uses, might represent substantial hurdles for the implementation of utility-scale solar systems in Nigeria. This is likely to be one of the disadvantages of solar energy or systems in Nigeria.

Conclusion

Generally, there are several concerns with solar energy in Nigeria. Including high costs, a lack of infrastructure, poor financing alternatives, technical incapacity, and a lack of proper regulations. This is why, we at Fizzle Power Tech, as a solar energy innovator and distributor made innovations to overcome these issues. Most importantly to come up with solutions that will allow solar energy to reach its full potential. As well as to tackle the supposed disadvantages of solar energy in Nigeria.

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Also, at the Ministerial Consultation on Energy in Africa, the Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, stated that Nigeria in particular has enormous mineral resources such as solar in plenty for the development of energy. He continued by saying that the region has a lot of natural solar energy and that it should not be disregarded.

The socioeconomic standing of Nigerian inhabitants has been positively and crucially impacted by the utilization of solar energy. In addition, this is supported by research done by the impact investment firm All-On, which is backed by Shell and Boston Consulting Group (BCG). This research examined how the use of solar energy affected the nation’s commercial activity, environment, and outcomes in the areas of health, education, and food security.

Nigeria is blessed with both conventional (non-renewable) and renewable (biomass, hydro, solar, and wind) energy resources. All these are adequate to meet its population’s needs and export the excess to neighbours as a marketable commodity to earn income. Hence, Climate Wednesday’s founder, Olumide Idowu, stated that “In Nigeria, using solar energy to power homes and businesses is a cost-effective option. Particularly in locations with unstable connectivity to the national grid, it can lower energy costs and expand access to power.”

According to Samuel Ayokunle Olowosejeje, (Research Fellow at University College Cork in Ireland). Among several advantages of solar energy, it can help lower the cost of producing and distributing power in Nigeria. Particularly when it is used on a wide scale. Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Tunde Lemo. Who is in favour of this resolution, said, using solar energy in Nigeria lessens the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels. Moreover, it promotes a healthy and green environment. It will also encourage economic growth and the creation of new jobs.”

In the same vein, Former Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola claims that “Solar energy helps to provide a clean and reliable source of power for homes and businesses. Hence, it reduces our reliance on fossil fuels and helps to mitigate the effects of climate change.”  

Dr Ibrahim Muritala, who is the Lead Researcher at the German Aerospace Centre’s Institute of Low-Carbon Industrial Processes. He said that it was past time for Nigeria to investigate using its plentiful solar energy to produce power. Also, as the moderator of the virtual annual public lecture of the Lagos/Ogun branch of the Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers. Muritala urged professionals to research solutions that may replace fossil fuels to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Additionally, in an interview with Leadership Nigeria. Katherine Lucey, the creator of Solar Sister, stated: “The Nigerian economy can flourish investing in solar energy. The growth of a thriving solar business can draw in international capital and aid in the economy’s diversification.” Furthermore, to support this claim, Abdulkarim asserts that alternative and renewable energy sources. Particularly the sun; as one of the most dependable ways to guarantee clean energy for Nigeria’s contemporary enterprises.

Read About: The Disadvantages of Solar Energy in Nigeria

Speaking on the advantages of solar energy in an interview with the Nigerian Tribune. Godwin Ojo, the Executive Director of Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria, said that we can address Nigeria’s energy security increase and power outages using solar energy. According to him, many people in the nation live in rural locations without easy access to the national grid. Hence, to reduce reliance on the national grid, off-grid solar solutions like solar home systems can supply consistent electricity. Both urban and rural areas may profit from solar energy, which is a dependable and sustainable source of power.”

According to Amina Mohammed,  Former Minister of Environment, “There are many advantages of solar energy. It is a cost-effective and sustainable solution to Nigeria’s power challenges. It has the potential to transform our energy sector and drive economic growth”. Also, Sale Mamman, Nigeria’s Minister of Electricity, discussed the advantages of solar energy with the Vanguard Nigeria. He said that it could help to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on fossil fuels. Moreover, this would, in turn, improve the country’s energy security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. He also noted that solar power could help to increase access to electricity in rural areas of the country.

Similarly, the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Eli Jidere Bala, spoke about the advantages of solar energy with The Guardian in 2018. He said that solar energy was a clean and sustainable source of power. Moving further, we could help to reduce the cost of electricity in Nigeria. Especially in rural areas where the cost of extending the national grid was prohibitive.

In addition, the Nigerian government has launched several initiatives in recent years promoting use of solar energy in the country. For example, the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has implemented the Solar Power Naija project. This project aims to provide electricity access to 25 million Nigerians through the deployment of solar home systems and mini-grids. The government has also introduced tax incentives and other measures to encourage private-sector investment in solar power.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the advantages of solar energy are so numerous. Mukhtaar Tijani, the Managing Director and CEO of the Lagos State Electricity Board, stated that “The introduction of solar energy across the nation is a positive development, particularly for rural communities. It is not just dependable and affordable but also environmentally friendly.” As a result, there is a surplus of solar energy we can use in many regions of Nigeria. However, the only requirement is that we need to measure properly.

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