You get two quotes for a "5kVA solar system". One is ₦2.5M. One is ₦1.6M. Same thing? Almost never.
Where cheap quotes cut
| Item | Cheap quote | Quality quote |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | Small, or tubular / gel | Right-sized LiFePO4 lithium |
| Battery size | "2 batteries" | Stated in kWh |
| Panels | Unknown brand, used | Tier-one brand, datasheet |
| Inverter | Modified sine wave or no-name | Pure sine wave hybrid |
| Cables | Thin | Sized for the current and distance |
| Breakers and fuses | Few or none | DC and AC protection |
| Surge protection | No | Yes |
| Earthing | No | Yes |
| Warranty | Verbal | Written |
The battery trick
The battery is the most expensive part. The easiest way to cut price is to cut the battery. The system looks the same on day one. But it goes off at 10pm instead of 6am.
Always ask: "How many kWh of usable battery?"
The panel trick
Unbranded or used panels look the same from the ground. But they can lose power fast. Read how to spot fake solar panels and new vs used panels.
The safety trick
Fuses, surge protectors and earthing are hidden in the box. You cannot see them missing. You only find out after a storm or a fire.
How to compare quotes
- Ask each installer for a line-by-line quote.
- Put them side by side.
- Compare battery kWh, panel brand and watts, inverter model.
- Check protection items are listed.
- Check the warranty is written.
