With NEPA supply remaining unreliable and fuel costs making generators increasingly expensive to run, solar and inverter installations have exploded across Lagos. More homeowners are making the switch, but not all installations are created equal.
Inverter system vs. solar: what is the difference?
Inverter system (battery + inverter, no solar): Charges from mains supply when power is available, runs on battery when NEPA goes. No fuel cost, silent operation, suitable for homes with at least a few hours of mains supply daily.
Solar system (solar panels + batteries + inverter): Charges from sunlight and is fully independent from NEPA and generator. Higher upfront cost but dramatically lower ongoing energy cost.
Hybrid system: Uses both solar and mains to charge batteries. Maximum resilience.
Sizing your system
The biggest mistake Lagos homeowners make is under-sizing their system. To size correctly, you need to know:
- Which appliances you want to run (lights, fans, TV, fridge, AC)
- The wattage of each appliance
- How many hours per day you need backup power
A 5kVA inverter with 200Ah battery bank handles a standard 2-bedroom apartment (lights, fans, TV, fridge) for 6-8 hours.
AC units are the largest draw; a 1.5hp AC unit alone needs a properly sized system, typically 5kVA+ with substantial battery capacity.
Finding a qualified solar/inverter installer in Lagos
This is not a job for an unqualified electrician. Incorrect wiring can destroy your batteries, damage appliances, and create fire risk.
Browse verified electrical and inverter installation specialists on PronearMe: filter for electricians who list inverter/solar installation in their skills.