A solar expert has taken to social media to caution Nigerians about frequent mistakes made during inverter installation in residential homes. The expert, known as @emmyinverters on TikTok, pointed out that many homeowners opt for large inverters and multiple solar panels but pair them with undersized batteries, leading to inefficient system performance.
Expert's Advice on Proper Solar System Design
In a viral video, the expert explained that he has observed a common trend in residential spaces: residents purchasing big inverters and numerous panels while neglecting battery capacity. He stated, "Why are you guys fond of installing big inverter setup, small battery, plenty panels?" He clarified that he was not referring to office spaces, but specifically residential installations where a 12kVA or 12kW inverter is paired with a 10kW or 15kW battery and up to 16 panels of 600 watts or more.
The expert advised homeowners to invest more in batteries that exceed the inverter's capacity, as this would ensure consistent power supply and better energy storage. He emphasized, "That extra money you're using to buy that large inverter you don't need, why didn't you just invest it in battery and have more storage?" He further noted that a 12kVA setup with a 10kW or 15kW battery is insufficient and urged people to change their design approach.
Public Reactions to the Warning
The video sparked numerous reactions from viewers who shared their own experiences and opinions. User Ecotrackpowerandenergy2 commented, "It's good having a big inverter. You can add battery later and panels too." Another user, buhari503, shared, "This is true, am using 6.5kva inverter with 640watt panels 6pcs and the funny thing is my battery is 5kva. All my appliances is not upto 50%." Palatoe Technologies noted, "The battery cells go hear am ..... 100+ amps discharge and charge on a 100amps cell." Daniel Clement explained the cost implications, stating, "The cheapest 10kva inverter is 850k. while the cheapest 5 kva battery is 1.2m, so if you don have enough money to buy bigger battery and you still want to power more item, then it best to buy bigger inverter with more panels to power things in the afternoon." Engr Promise expressed frustration, saying, "I just tire for them ooo 2.5kilowatt 4 kva and 6plcs of 600w panels. Instead of get atless 5kilowatt 4kva and 4 panels of 600w." Glen Neo Boshego highlighted the importance of a large inverter and solar parity for running higher appliances during peak sun. Alena pointed out that hybrid inverters work without batteries during the day, so a small battery bank is only for night use. Mohammed Idris Adamu disagreed, stating, "I dont agree with u on this. its called over paneling, there's nothing wrong in overpaneling as long as the inverter can accommodate them. most 9 to 5 offices dont need much backup as they close around 5pm in this case what will u use the large battery backup for? panels are very cheap compared to battery."
Related Solar Energy Stories
In a similar story, a young Nigerian man shared his experience after buying a 1kVA solar generator and a solar panel about a month ago. He explained how the system powers his home appliances like the TV and fan, while also disclosing the amount he spent on both items and how the setup has been serving him since purchase. Additionally, a young Nigerian lady purchased an Itel PowerTank and shared her experience online, including the payment receipt showing the amount she spent. She also posted a video of her visit to the store and her excitement after taking the device to her shop, saying it would help her solve constant fuel and electricity challenges.
