The two most common home systems in Rivers, Delta and Bayelsa are 3kVA and 5kVA. Which one is right for you? It comes down to one question: do you want to run an AC?
Quick compare
| 3kVA | 5kVA | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | 1 to 2 bedrooms | 2 to 3 bedrooms |
| Lights, fans, TV | Yes | Yes |
| Fridge / freezer | Yes | Yes, bigger ones too |
| Washing machine | Careful | Yes |
| Pressing iron | Only with little else on | Yes |
| 1.5HP inverter AC | No | Yes, for a few hours |
| Usual battery | 5kWh lithium | 5kWh lithium |
| Usual panels | 4 × 600W | 5 to 6 × 600W |
| Price (2026) | From about ₦2.8M | About ₦2.2M to ₦2.8M |
Choose 3kVA if…
- You live in a flat or small bungalow.
- You want the generator off for lights, fans, TV and fridge.
- You do not plan to run an AC on solar.
- Your budget is tight.
A 3kVA with 5kWh lithium runs a 400W evening load for about 11 hours.
Choose 5kVA if…
- You want to iron, wash clothes or use a microwave without switching things off.
- You want one AC for a few hours.
- You run a shop with a freezer.
- You think you will grow your load.
The AC rule
A 1.5HP AC needs a big burst of power to start. A 3kVA inverter often trips. So if you want AC, go 5kVA or more. If you want AC all night, look at 6kVA with 16kWh. Read can solar power an AC.
Do not forget the battery
The inverter decides what you can run. The battery decides how long. A 5kVA inverter with a tiny battery will still go off early at night. See how long a solar battery lasts at night.
Local tip
Many families in Obio-Akpor and Effurun start with 3kVA, then add an AC a year later and need a new inverter. If an AC is in your plans, start at 5kVA.
See full prices on the pricing page.
