Landlord Blocks Tenant's Solar Panel Installation on Roof, Installer Reacts
A Nigerian solar installer has shared a viral video capturing a contentious moment when a landlord intervened to stop a tenant from installing large bifacial solar panels on the roof of a rented property. The incident, which occurred recently, has ignited a widespread debate over property rights, tenant autonomy, and the growing demand for clean energy alternatives in Nigeria.
Details of the Solar Panel Dispute
The solar installer, identified online as @michbamsolar, documented the encounter where the landlord refused permission to mount 10 pieces of 650-watt solar panels on the roof. According to the installer, every attempt to reason with the landlord proved futile, forcing the installation team to resort to a smaller space on the security house instead. The installer emphasized that landlords should consider prospective tenants' needs for solar energy when constructing homes, advocating for roof designs that accommodate such installations.
In the video, the installer highlighted the challenges faced, noting that the tenant's apartment was so cramped that the battery and inverter had to be placed in the kitchen. This situation underscores the practical difficulties tenants encounter when seeking sustainable power solutions in rental properties.
Public Reactions and Support for the Landlord
Many Nigerians have expressed support for the landlord's decision, citing concerns over potential roof damage. Comments from social media users reveal a strong sentiment against unauthorized installations. For instance, one user, kindness_ng, stated, "Tenant cannot put panels on my roof, never consenting to that," while another, john Bosco, pointed out, "They don't allow that because of leakage, so installers don't know how to install the panel without damaging the roof." These reactions reflect fears that improper installation could lead to wear and tear, leaks, and structural issues, as echoed by a construction engineer who shared an experience of significant damage from a previous installation.
Broader Implications and Related Incidents
This incident is not isolated, as similar cases have emerged in Nigeria. For example, another solar installer, @solidelectricalcompany, reported an incident where an apprentice damaged a roof during a monofacial panel installation, causing leaks in multiple areas. Such stories fuel the debate, with some arguing that tenants should always seek landlord approval before proceeding with solar projects. As ChiefDoc commented, "It’s a nonsense idea to install solar panels without the approval of the house owner. It’s normal to seek his permission before trying it."
The discussion extends to the balance between promoting clean energy adoption and protecting property investments. With Nigeria's frequent power outages, solar energy is increasingly popular, but this case highlights the need for clear guidelines and communication between landlords and tenants to avoid conflicts.
