When it comes to alternative power in Nigeria, most people have one big question:
Which is more cost-effective—solar or a generator?
To answer this, we spoke with Michael Olaitan, a solar energy expert and co-founder of PowerNow, a company helping Nigerians transition to affordable solar energy.
Michael Olaitan understands this debate well—because he once relied on a generator himself. During the COVID lockdown, he spent so much on fuel just to keep his home office running that he started tracking the costs. What he found shocked him.
“By the time I added up my fuel expenses, generator servicing, and repairs, I realized I was throwing away millions over a few years,” Michael Olaitan says. “That’s when I switched to solar. Today, I don’t even think about fuel costs.”
But is solar really cheaper than a generator? Let’s analyze the numbers.
Michael Olaitan on Upfront Costs: Generators Are Cheaper at First
For most people, the biggest reason for choosing a generator over solar is the initial cost.
A small petrol generator costs between ₦200,000 to ₦500,000.
A diesel generator can range from ₦1 million to ₦10 million for larger capacities.
A basic solar system can cost ₦500,000 to ₦5 million, depending on the energy demand.
“At first glance, generators seem like the obvious choice,” says Michael Olaitan. “But the problem is, the spending doesn’t stop there.”
Michael Olaitan’s Cost Analysis: Solar Saves You Millions Over Time
Michael Olaitan on Reliability: Solar vs. Fuel Scarcity
One major downside of generators is fuel dependency. Nigerians know this struggle well—queues at fuel stations, price hikes, or outright scarcity.
“Imagine depending on something you can’t even control,” Michael Olaitan points out. “With solar, I never have to check fuel prices or worry about scarcity. My power comes directly from the sun, and it’s always available.”
Michael Olaitan’s View on Noise & Pollution: Solar is the Cleaner Option
Beyond cost, generators come with two major inconveniences:
Noise pollution: Running a generator means constant background noise, whether you’re working, sleeping, or having a conversation.
Air pollution: Generators emit harmful fumes that contribute to respiratory issues and environmental damage.Solar, on the other hand, is silent and clean.
Michael Olaitan shares his experience: “When I switched to solar, my home became instantly quieter. No more generator noise, no more black smoke—just uninterrupted power.”
Michael Olaitan on Solar Financing: Why More Nigerians Are Switching
A common concern is the high upfront cost of solar, but flexible payment options are now making it easier for Nigerians to transition.
Through financing plans like PowerNow PayLater, customers can install solar and pay in monthly installments—just like paying for fuel.
Michael Olaitan explains: “Instead of spending ₦100,000+ every month on fuel, you could use that same amount to pay off a solar system—and after a short period, you own your power forever.”
Michael Olaitan’s Final Verdict: Which One Saves You More Money?
If you need an immediate, low-cost power solution, a generator works—but expect to keep spending on fuel and maintenance.
If you want long-term savings, solar is the better investment. While the initial cost is higher, you’ll recover your money within 1–2 years and enjoy free electricity for decades.
Michael Olaitan’s final thought: “I switched to solar and never looked back. If you’re tired of spending millions on fuel, maybe it’s time you made the switch too.”
What’s your experience with generators and solar? Let’s discuss in the comments!
