Nigerians Need 200 Solar Panels to Sell Electricity

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has announced a new net billing regulation set to commence in 2026, allowing electricity users to sell surplus energy generated from solar photovoltaic systems to Distribution Companies (DisCos). To qualify for this scheme, consumers must install a minimum capacity of 50 kilowatts peak (kWp) and a maximum of 1.5 megawatts peak (MWP).

The regulation aims to promote renewable energy technology, enhance energy security, and encourage private sector participation in electricity generation. Consumers will need to install 200 solar panels of 250 watts each or 100 panels of 500 watts each to achieve the 50 kWp requirement.

The installation will require significant space, approximately 400 to 500 square meters for the panels. The cost for a 50 kWp solar electricity system is estimated between N45 million and N150 million, depending on battery capacity and inverter configuration.

This initiative is seen as an opportunity to incorporate alternative energy sources into Nigeria's energy mix.