Meet Lola, a content marketing manager who works remotely in Lagos, Nigeria. Like many others, she has been struggling with her productivity at work due to frequent power outages and is considering switching to solar; however, her major hurdle lies in not knowing where to begin.

If you're like Lola and wondering where to begin, you're not alone. The world of solar energy can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. This guide holds your hand and walks you through transitioning to a more energy-independent lifestyle.

As you begin the journey to making your home or business more self-sufficient in terms of energy, consider the following essential steps.

Step 1:

Verify that you can install a solar panel

This is important, especially if you live in a rented apartment. Unlike easily moved generators, solar panels are mounted on rooftops to generate maximum electricity for your home. So, getting permission from your landlord is necessary before proceeding. Additionally, look out for regulatory and legal considerations in your area. Some estates require permits for solar installations. Ensure compliance with local authorities or the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

Step 2:

Assess your energy needs

Do you plan to use the solar inverter as your sole power source or to augment the grid power? Do you plan to power every item in your home or only the essentials? The answers to these questions will guide your decision-making process.

Determine the appliances and devices you want to power and how long you want to power them. This will help you choose the suitable capacity for your home or business.

Step 3:

Consider your financing options

Explore various financing options for solar installations, such as loans, leasing, or pay-as-you-go schemes, to make the investment more affordable. For instance, if you plan to relocate soon, the subscription option is best suited for you. If you have a big budget, you can buy a system outright and if you don't, no worries. With SunFi, you can enjoy solar on a subscription plan or pay in instalments to fully own a solar system.

Step 4:

Consider the type of solar battery you want

Now that you have settled the basics, it is time to go into the specifics of the solar system itself. We understand this aspect can throw you off, but not to worry; we'll break it down.

Two main options are the Lead Acid Battery and the Lithium-ion Battery.

Lead Acid battery

This is one of the oldest battery technologies and is a mixture of water and acids. It is widely used because of its recyclability and affordability. Despite this, it has a short life span. After a few months, you can only use 80% of the battery's capacity. The 20% is left to waste and will clog the battery, reduce its performance, and eventually damage it. These batteries take longer and do not charge during the rainy season.

Lithium-ion batteries

Li-ion batteries use the newest technology in the solar industry and do not require maintenance or venting. Unlike the lead acid battery, the power can be used up by the user. This means you can use your battery up to 0% without reducing lifespan. Even more, it can be charged and discharged up to 3,000 times. Now, that's something to consider!

Overall, lithium-ion batteries are the best bet for your home and business. With an over ten-year lifespan, the lithium-ion battery is the best solar battery for Nigerians because it is not affected by harsh weather conditions and has a fast charge rate. As you consider which is best for you, here's a thought - six lead acid batteries are the equivalent of two lithium-ion batteries.

Step 5:

Research solar energy providers

Once you've chosen the type of battery you prefer, the next step is to find a reliable company to do business with. You'll want to partner with a reputable solar energy company or supplier in Nigeria. You can start your search online or ask for recommendations from friends and family.

But here's the stress-free alternative with SunFi: We've partnered with the best solar providers, and we take care of recommending the finest solutions and providers to our valued customers. You won't have to deal with the hassle.

Step 6:

Prepare your home for solar

As you prepare for solar energy, it's essential to ensure that your appliances are energy-efficient, meaning they consume less power. Before transitioning to solar, consider switching your appliances to energy-saving appliances. This will enable you to maximise the benefits of your solar investment. As you plan for solar energy, ensure your appliances are energy efficient, i.e. they consume low energy. Before going solar, improve energy efficiency in your home or business by using energy-saving appliances and implementing energy conservation practices. This will help you make the most of your solar investment. Embracing solar energy is a step toward a more sustainable and cost-effective future. By following these steps, you're setting yourself on a path to energy independence. Like Lola, who can now enjoy affordable and reliable electricity, you can also benefit from solar power.

Are you ready to begin the journey to a more sustainable life? SunFi is here to guide you through the process and help you find the perfect solar plan for your home and business.

Click the link here to get started on your solar journey today.