An energy expert, Orebiyi Godfrey, has warned Nigerians against purchasing substandard solar components, citing premature equipment failure, additional replacement costs and potential safety hazards.
Godfrey gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Monday, urging consumers to prioritise product quality, verifiable certification and professional installation when investing in solar energy systems.
He said some solar equipment sold at unusually low prices failed shortly after installation, with poor-quality components and improper installation practices contributing to system breakdowns.
According to him, some sellers misrepresent the specifications and quality of their products, including labelling lower-grade solar panels as Grade A equipment.
Godfrey cited an estimate attributed to the Nigerian Energy Support Programme suggesting that up to 40 per cent of solar components in the Nigerian market do not meet international standards. The estimate was not independently verified in the report.
He recounted the experience of a client whose low-cost battery pack failed after six months, saying the subsequent replacement cost exceeded the amount that could have been saved by choosing a standard product initially.
The expert identified batteries and inverters as components requiring particular scrutiny because their quality affects system reliability and safety. Poor-quality batteries, incompatible equipment and faulty electrical connections can contribute to overheating, equipment damage and fire risks.
Godfrey advised consumers to purchase from reputable vendors, verify manufacturers’ specifications and certification claims, and engage qualified technicians to design and install their systems.
His warning comes as more Nigerian households and businesses turn to solar energy to cope with unreliable grid electricity and rising costs of alternative power sources.
In July 2025, the Rural Electrification Agency commissioned a Mini-Grid Testing and Simulation Centre in Abuja to help assess solar equipment and ensure that products meet required standards before deployment.
In June 2026, the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria also pledged closer cooperation on testing, certification and enforcement to address the circulation of substandard renewable energy products.
Godfrey said stronger consumer awareness, effective quality control and responsible purchasing decisions were essential to reducing avoidable financial losses and safety risks while supporting the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s solar energy sector.
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