There is a clear correlation between economic growth and development and electricity supply. Any part of the world that wants to grow in technology and manufacturing needs an abundance of power supply. This is exactly what is lacking in sub-Saharan Africa, therefore hindering its growth and development. It is in fact the world’s worst from an electricity-access point of view.
Over the years, many options of energy production has been considered for the grid and off grid power supplies. In most cases, the amount of energy generated and distributed in the grid system is not enough for the general populace. Other clean source of energy that has been considered like Nuclear, wind and solar energy are considered too expensive for these developing countries.
However, one of this options is showing sign of becoming a viable choice of alternative energy. This is the solar energy option.
Why Solar Energy is Becoming a Viable Option
Cost
While the general opinion about solar energy option is that it is expensive, the cost of installing one is gradually coming down. When compared to the cost in the past five or ten years, it has drastically lowered. This is owing to the improvements in the production of solar cell and solar panel and their technology. In addition, companies now provide innovative ideas for a flexible payment options.
Estimations carried out by TechCabal recently, also shows a tremendous cost saving of up to NGN189,990 in a three-year period when compared with fueling a Generator alone without cost of maintenance and other expenses. Amazingly the estimate was for a 5Kw solar system compared with a 2.5KVA fuel generator. This means that in addition to saving costs and getting cleaner energy, you also stand to get more power. An incredible option for startups.
Energy Supply Capability
An Interesting thing about Solar energy system is that it is flexible and scalable. This means that you can set up your solar system to supply you energy according to your estimated consumption. A fairly common 2kw Solar system can power a home if effectively managed. A 2KW system will power ten energy-saving bulbs, two fans, two LCD/LED TV of combined 120w energy rating, a fridge of 250w, 1HP water pump and a micro wave. However for homes that consumes more power, the system can be scaled up to generate more energy of up to 15kw. This will power up to five energy-efficient Air conditioning systems (AC).
A very good advantage of solar systems, aside from been a clean source of energy is that it teaches and encourages people to more energy efficient in their consumption. A plus to the society and the earth at large.
Low Maintenance Cost
One factor that highly contribute to the cost savings in solar systems is due to its low-level of maintenance. The solar panel which is one of the major component of the solar system do come with 25-30 years warranty without the need for repairs. The Solar inverter has about 10 years life expectancy without any major repairs. While Solar batteries vary, they can also work effectively for 5-15 years without repairs.
The Verdict
It is quite obvious that the long-term benefit of an investment into a solar energy system outmatches the initial cost. It gives you a reliable source of alternative energy, it is clean and has a lot of cost benefit, this allows your business to grow and flourish. In addition it is not as expensive as it used to be and there are options to opt in for a flexible payment option offered by companies.
So without any doubt Solar energy option is a viable source of alternative energy especially in Nigeria where people and businesses are energy starved.
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