A Nigerian man has shared the total amount he spent on a 16kVA solar inverter, batteries, and panels, warning others about the prevalence of fake solar panels in the country. The man, identified as @samtechie on TikTok, showcased his solar setup and disclosed that he paid N4.5 million for the entire system. He noted that many people end up spending up to N6 million for a similar configuration.
Man Shares Cost of Solar System and Warns Against Scams
In a TikTok video, @samtechie detailed his experience purchasing and installing the solar system. He said, “I spent 4.5 million naira getting my own solar setup a few weeks ago, and trust me, this is a setup a lot of people will pay 5.5, 6 million to get or even above. So how is that even possible?” He explained that the solar industry is rife with deception, stating, “The truth is that the solar industry is probably the most dubious industry I have ever seen. There are just a lot of people out here trying to sell you fake lies and promises that are not even possible.” He cited examples such as claims that solar generators can power two air conditioners and the widespread sale of fake solar panels across Nigeria.
Reactions to the Solar Setup Video
The video, captioned “Just Bought a New Solar System Unboxing + Solar Setup Guide (Don’t Waste Your Money!),” garnered numerous comments from viewers. User Solarking001 commented, “Firstly your system is nice congrats but know this 1, 8 unit of 620watt is 4960 in pv which has exceed the inverter rating per strings your system is at risk and secondly that system is missing some protection device which is wrong make sure your installer number is close by good luck.” Another user, Architect August, advised, “I tell people, buy materials yourself, most dealers will tell you what you need for installation. But you see these installers, they will make solar overly expensive if you leave them to do all the job.” User kenasolarenergy added, “First of all 98% of solar panels in the market aren’t fake, and note jinko are not the only good panels in the market, secondly your 8 units of 620W panels is not sufficient for your battery and your load too.”
Related Stories: Solar Energy Adoption in Nigeria
In a related story, a man shared how he sold electricity to neighbors after installing solar energy. Another lady installed her own solar system using her tech money. Meanwhile, a restaurant owner who installed solar electricity at her business celebrated the move. She revealed the cost and noted that she previously spent N200,000 daily on diesel to run her business before switching to solar power.
