As Nigeria grapples with an unreliable power supply and frequent national grid collapses, alternative energy sources like solar power are becoming increasingly attractive. In an exclusive interview, Babatade David Akande, CEO of BMA Limited and a leading solar panel installer in Nigeria, highlights the benefits, challenges, and future of solar energy in the country.
Affordable and Efficient Energy
Akande revealed that the cost of installing solar panels for an average household in Nigeria ranges between N1.5 million and N2 million. While this initial investment may seem significant, he emphasized that solar energy offers long-term savings on energy bills. “Solar installation is cheaper, more reliable, and more efficient in the long run,” he stated.
Optimized for Nigeria’s Climate
Addressing concerns about the efficiency of solar panels in Nigeria’s varying weather conditions, Akande noted that the country’s climate is well-suited for solar energy. “Nigeria has favorable weather conditions for solar panels. However, downtime may occur during the rainy season when there’s heavy rainfall for days,” he explained.
Sustainability and Longevity
Akande highlighted the durability of solar energy systems, noting that solar panels typically last between 20 and 35 years. Battery lifespans vary from 3 to 6 years, depending on the type, with lithium-ion batteries currently being the most reliable. Maintenance involves regular panel cleaning and, for tubular batteries, monitoring distilled water levels.
Customized Solutions for All
BMA Limited offers tailored solar installations to meet clients’ energy needs and budgets. This flexibility ensures that more Nigerians can access clean and efficient energy solutions. The company also provides installment payment plans and pay-as-you-go packages to address concerns about upfront costs.
Educating Nigerians on Solar Benefits
Akande is a strong advocate for solar energy, emphasizing its eco-friendliness and cost-effectiveness. “Solar energy saves the cost of refueling and maintaining a generator. Considering the high price of PMS and the frequent collapse of the national grid, a solar inverter system is the best option,” he said.
Expanding Reach Across Nigeria
BMA Limited has successfully installed solar systems in various parts of the country, including Lagos, Ogun, Port Harcourt, and Abuja. Akande shared that these installations range from household systems to business solutions, showcasing the versatility of solar energy.
Challenges and Opportunities
While solar energy adoption is growing, Akande lamented the lack of solid government policies or incentives to support the industry. Nonetheless, he is optimistic about the future, noting that the availability of spare parts and trained technicians has improved as more investors enter the solar energy sector.
Reducing Dependence on the National Grid
By providing solar inverter systems to homes and businesses across Nigeria, Akande believes solar energy significantly reduces the country’s dependence on the fragile national grid. He called for more awareness and investments in renewable energy to ensure a stable power supply for Nigerians.
Success Stories Abound
Akande shared numerous success stories of individuals and organizations that have transitioned to solar energy. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, from household use to large business operations,” he said.
For inquiries about solar panel installation and related services, Babatade David Akande can be reached at 08062827861
Instagram: babatade_david
