Frequently Asked Questions
Is Solar Electricity really cost effective?
YES. Over the course of its 25-yr (or more) lifespan and no running cost, a solar power system is a smart and low risk investment. It is obviously cheaper than the cumulative cost of buying, fueling, maintaining and replacing diesel or petrol generators.
Can the Sun really power my home?
YES, ABSOLUTELY! We install solar power systems of various capacities (from 1kW residential systems to 1MW commercial-grade systems) to accommodate different energy requirements.
How do solar power systems work?
Solar power systems capture the sun's energy with photovoltaic (PV) cells that are connected together side by side in flat panels or modules mounted on a roof or open area facing toward the sun. Energy from sunlight striking the top layer of the PV cells, and causes the cells to release electrons. These electrons migrate through the electrical system and back to the cells again, causing a DC electric current in the system-the same type of current produced by a battery. A device called an inverter converts the current from DC to AC to match the kind of current running through a standard electric outlet in your building.
What happens on a rainy day when there is no sunshine?
During a rainy day, the solar power system draws electricity from its battery bank and supplies it to your home. The battery bank is like a 'resevoir' of electricity that is made available when there is no sunshine. Even on cloudy days, solar power systems do generate electricity, albeit in lesser quantity.
What if there is no sunlight for consecutive days?
Our solar power systems are designed for 48 hours (2 days) 'no-sun' backup. This means that we have sized the battery bank to store enough electricity to power your home for upto 48 hours if there is no sunlight. So your electricity supply will continue uninterrupted during this period. If there is no sunshine beyond two consecutive days, you will have to re-charge the battery bank from an emergency generator.
Do I need to change my appliances?
You don't have to. But it helps if your appliances are energy-efficient so that your overall power requirement is lower and the size of solar system you need is smaller. For this reason, SolarPlus advises that you use energy-saving bulbs rather than incandescent bulbs. You may also want to consider a more energy efficient washer, TV and refrigerator.
Can I still use all my appliances if i install solar power?
Yes if you purchase the right system size that can handle all your appliances. Our Systems come in different sizes, and can power most home/regular office appliances. The higher your electricity usage, the bigger the size of system you need.
Will I notice any difference in the performance of my appliances?
There will be no difference between the electricity from your solar system and electricity from the grid. All of your electrical equipment will operate the same as it always did with no change in performance.
How big a system do i need for my home?
The size of solar system you need depends on the amount of electricity you use per day, which in turn depends on your lifestyle, and your appliances. For this reason, you should have your system designed and installed by solar energy professionals like SolarPlus. An under-sized system may not perform to your expectations or needs. An over-sized system will simply waste your money. Our engineer will do an assessment of your energy usage to determine and recommend the optimum system size for your requirement.
Can I start small and add on later?
Yes, SolarPlus can design a system that will provide enough power to operate a few essential items and then add to it as your need changes.
Is it possible to supply all of my power needs with a solar system?
In many cases, it is possible to supply all or nearly all of your required electrical power with a solar system. The main determining factors are whether you have enough roof space with sun exposure, and your budget.
What is the warranty on your installation?
Our warranty term is: 10 years on solar panels; 2 years on all other components.
How much does a Solar System cost?
The cost of the solar power system depends on its specification which in turn depends on your power requirement. There is no one-size-fits-all system.
Click here for pricing information on some of our commonly installed residential systems.
Will I have to disconnect from grid electricity if i install a solar power system?
No. Your solar power system will co-exist with your grid supply. If there is electricity from the grid, the solar power system auto-disconnects and stores all its electricity in the battery bank. When the grid supply fails, your solar system kicks in automatically.
How long does a solar power system last?
Solar power systems have no moving parts. So there is no wear and tear - making them virtually maintenance free. Our Solar Power system will continue to generate electricity even after 25 years of use. Battery replacements may be neccessary in 3 to 5-year intervals.
Does it make a difference if the solar panels are mounted on a roof or on a pole?
No. The critical factor is that the solar panels must have a clear view of the sun always. If your compound is small or there are trees around your property, then roof mounting might be the best way.
Does solar power work for commercial buildings?
Yes! Solar electricity is usable wherever electricity is required. We install commercial grade solar power systems of up to 1MW output.
How much will a commercial solar system cost?
There are many variables that go into figuring the cost of a commercial grade solar power system, but ₦250 to ₦400 per watt is a rough estimate range. Some of the variables to consider when figuring cost are:
- Location
- Type of mount (ground or rooftop)
- Your energy requirement
- Interconnection requirement
Our first step is usually a site assessment which will yield a full understanding of your project site and objectives.
Who should I buy my system from?
This may be the most important question of all. If you shop around long enough, you may find a really 'cheap' system, but that’s not what it’s all about. You need the right solar panels, the right inverter, the right charge controller, the right batteries, the right system design and the right installer.
Many people who sell solar equipment have no installation experience. And they will sell to you what they have rather than what you really need. These are true-to-life situations we have come across in the solar power business.
SolarPlus is an experienced Solar Energy Supplier and Installer. We will design, supply, install and maintain your solar system to give you the most satisfaction, energy independence and peace of mind.
Why should I choose SolarPlus?
Our answer is simple - we are good at what we do. Your questions will get answered and your needs will be met. It is our earnest goal to leave you completely satisfied.
OK! I'm interested. What is the process for getting things started?
Call us today and we will assess your electricity needs and provide a quote for an appropriate system for you. We install and commission within 21 days.