- Nigerians are turning to solar power due to soaring electricity costs, which have risen by over 300 per cent since April.
- Solar energy offers a sustainable solution amid struggles with affordability and power shortages in Nigeria.
A sharp increase in electricity costs has left many Nigerians struggling to afford power. Since April, costs have risen by over 300 per cent after the government ended subsidies for Band A feeders.
Many citizens are now turning to solar energy as an alternative. The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) raised Band A tariffs from N68 to N225 per kilowatt-hour in April and N206.80/kWh in May.
Calls for a return to N68/kWh persist, but the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, insists this would lead to power shortages. Adelabu argues that the current tariff attracts investment and liquidity to the power sector.
The government claims Band A customers can afford higher costs. However, pensioners, traders, farmers, and civil servants need help with the new rates.
Electricity has become a luxury, and many need help paying their increased bills. Nigerians now get only 4.8 units for N1,000, down from 14.
Monthly wages of N30,000 now buy 145 units, compared to over 400 units. Citizens have shared their struggles with households cutting back on usage and expenses.
Protests have erupted. Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigerian Labour Congress, led a demonstration at NERC headquarters, demanding a tariff reversal and better electricity supply.
Many Band, A customers are switching to solar power. Social media commentator Morris Monye and others have invested in solar panels and batteries despite high initial costs and resistance from landlords.
Patrick Agese, CEO of Pam Africa, reported a surge in inquiries about solar installations. Though interest is high, affordability remains a barrier. Solar companies now offer monthly payment plans to ease the switch.
The government plans to build renewable power plants to improve supply. As Nigeria faces energy poverty, solar power offers a sustainable solution, but high costs hinder widespread adoption.