A Nigerian man who took out a loan to purchase a solar inverter and multiple panels has expressed his frustration online after his landlord prevented him from installing the system on the rooftop. The individual, identified as @DifferentKaro on social media, explained that he had been inspired by the growing popularity of solar energy and decided to invest in a solar setup for his apartment.
Landlord Blocks Installation
After acquiring the equipment, @DifferentKaro attempted to mount the panels on the roof of his rented apartment. However, his landlord refused permission. The landlord cited two main reasons: the house features a Gerard roofing system, and he had watched videos showing solar panel installations causing house fires. Despite the tenant's assurance that he would cover any potential damage to the roof, the landlord remained firm in his decision.
@DifferentKaro shared his dismay, stating, "Solar this, solar that. I even borrowed money to do the solar. After buying the panels, my landlord did not allow me to install it because he has Gerard roofing, and he has been seeing videos of solar causing people's roofs to catch fire, so it's too much risk for him. Even though I agreed to pay for any damage to the roof." He added, "So at this point, it seems buying solar is not enough; I have to build my own house."
Online Reactions and Suggestions
The post generated a wave of reactions from social media users, many of whom offered alternative solutions. @Omofolaranmi01 suggested setting up a system that can charge via generator or grid during outages, though noting it may be less efficient. @Obong_Pablo shared that a neighbor mounted panels in front of the house on platforms, while another used a water tank as a base. @elvis_ci proposed offering to power communal lights to change the landlord's mind. @oforitseno advised that owning a property is preferable before investing in solar deployment.
@olamidehades expressed concern over the "false narrative of panels catching fire," calling it a rare occurrence often fueled by misinformation. @gr8tmindd revealed that he installed his panels on an overhead tank suction stand instead of the roof. @Hi_This_Gabriel recommended creating a shaded area like a parking spot for panel placement. @AliokeSolarNG noted that rooftop risks are a common fear among homeowners but suggested alternatives such as swinging poles or backup systems for tight spaces.
Related Stories
In a similar report, a Nigerian man who installed a 6.2kW solar system shared his project details, including battery size and daily operation costs. He disclosed that the installation ranged between N2.9 million and N3 million. Another story highlighted a young man who, after being denied rooftop installation by his landlord, devised an alternative setup to ensure the panels faced the sun and provided steady electricity.
