Compliance and quality standards in solar energy installations in Nigeria: Consumer awareness and vendor practices

The adoption of solar energy has become one of the reliable, practical solutions to Nigeria’s energy challenges. Given the country's unreliable grid supply and the high cost of alternatives like diesel and petrol generators, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have gained widespread acceptance among households and businesses. However, the efficiency and longevity of these systems largely depend on adherence to quality standards and regulatory compliance. A lack of awareness about quality standards, non-compliance with best installation practices, and the prevalence of substandard components have raised concerns about the sustainability and reliability of solar energy solutions in Nigeria. This study examines the awareness and compliance levels of consumers and vendors regarding quality standards in solar energy installations. It explores how consumers balance cost and quality, their knowledge of regulatory requirements, and their experiences with substandard installations. Additionally, it assesses vendor practices in ensuring compliance with quality benchmarks and identifies key challenges in enforcing standards. The findings highlight that many solar energy installations fail to deliver the expected longevity due to compromises on quality, as both vendors and consumers often opt for substandard materials to cut costs. The findings revealed that 38.7% of respondents lacked awareness of standards, regulations, codes, or safety procedures, while 44.3% had a satisfactory understanding, and only 17.0% demonstrated a strong grasp. Similarly, 33.0% were unaware of the roles of regulatory agencies, 44.3% had sufficient knowledge, and 22.6% had a thorough understanding. Also, 68.9% of respondents were familiar with renewable energy. While 76.4% knew that solar energy facilities are expected to last between 10 and 25 years, 54.7% questioned whether installed systems met this expectation. Moreover, 39.6% had an accurate understanding of quality requirements, yet 52.8% did not verify the qualifications of their installer before hiring. Despite high awareness of regulatory bodies such as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), enforcement remains weak. These bodies have established guidelines for solar energy systems, including mandatory certification and licensing for practitioners, but issues persist, including the sale and installation of uncertified products.