Installation Guide
Choosing the right partner and what to expect during installation.
Choosing the Right Solar Installation Partner
The success of your solar investment heavily depends on selecting the right installation company.
Essential Qualifications
- Certified technicians — NABCEP or equivalent certifications
- Insurance coverage — both liability and equipment insurance
- Track record — minimum 3 years in business with verifiable installations
- After-sales support — clear warranty terms and maintenance packages
Red Flags to Avoid
- Door-to-door sales — reputable companies don't use high-pressure tactics
- Extremely low quotes — quality installation requires skilled labor and genuine components
- No site assessment — professional installers always conduct thorough evaluations
- Payment upfront — never pay the full amount before installation begins
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Phase 1: Assessment & Design
1–2 weeks- Energy audit — professional analysis of your power consumption
- Site survey — roof assessment, shading analysis, electrical evaluation
- System design — custom configuration based on needs and budget
- Permits — obtaining necessary approvals
Phase 2: Procurement
2–4 weeks- Component sourcing — ordering panels, inverters, batteries, accessories
- Quality inspection — ensuring all components meet specifications
- Logistics planning — coordinating delivery and installation schedules
Phase 3: Installation
3–7 days- Mounting system installation — securing panels to roof or ground
- Electrical connections — DC and AC wiring, safety disconnects
- System commissioning — testing and optimization
- Training and handover — teaching you to operate and monitor your system
Maintenance & Long-term Costs
Solar systems require minimal maintenance, but some ongoing costs include:
Annual Maintenance: ₦50,000 – ₦200,000
- • Panel cleaning and inspection
- • Battery maintenance (for lead-acid batteries)
- • Electrical connection checks
- • Performance monitoring
Component Replacement Schedule
Solar panels25+ years (25-year warranty)
Inverters10–15 years
Lead-acid batteries3–5 years
Lithium batteries8–12 years
