The recent hike in electricity tariff, coupled with persistent power instability in Nigeria, has prompted many homeowners to consider the solar inverter solution, either as a backup for uninterrupted power or as a complete off-grid alternative.
Although solar inverters have been available in Nigeria since the early 2000s, their widespread adoption was limited by the shortcomings of lead-acid batteries (sealed or flooded).
This narrative changed in recent years when forward-thinking engineers, homeowners, and entrepreneurs began importing LiFePO₄ (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries from the Chinese market.
Today, these LiFePO₄ batteries are rapidly becoming the preferred choice for solar inverter systems, thanks to their outstanding safety, extended lifespan, and consistent performance.
Unlike conventional lead-acid batteries (sealed and flooded), the LiFePO₄ technology delivers a robust and reliable solution for both residential and industrial solar inverter systems.
Why LifePO4 Batteries Stand Out
Longer Lifespan: Grade A LiFePo4 batteries can function effectively above 6000cycles (more than 16years of use if charged and discharged once a day). This is very far from the popular deep-cycle batteries that last for just 2 years and up to 5 years in rare cases.
Improved Efficiency: LiFePo4 batteries have a higher round-trip efficiency, usually around 90-95%. This means that a higher percentage of the energy stored can be used, compared to lead-acid batteries, which often have an efficiency of around 60-75%.
Depth of Discharge (DoD): Lithium batteries can handle a deeper discharge (up to 90%) without impacting their lifespan. Lead-acid batteries, on the other hand, should only be discharged to about 40% to preserve their lifespan.
Faster Charging: Lithium batteries store charge much faster than their counterparts. They can absorb power more quickly during the solar charging period, which is particularly useful for solar systems with limited sun hours.
Lower Maintenance: Unlike some other batteries, which require periodic maintenance (like checking water levels), LiFePo4 batteries are virtually maintenance-free.
No “Memory Effect”: Unlike some other batteries, LiFePo4 batteries don’t suffer from the “memory effect,” which can reduce a battery’s effective capacity if it’s not fully discharged before recharging.
Higher Energy Density: LiFePo4 batteries store more energy in a smaller, lighter package. This makes them ideal for solar systems where space or weight is a concern.
Environmental Impact: LiFePO4 batteries are more environmentally friendly than lead-acid batteries, which contain toxic materials.
Better Performance in Extreme Conditions: LiFePo4 batteries perform better in both high and low temperature conditions compared to lead-acid batteries, which can degrade more quickly in extreme temperatures.
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Impact on Solar Inverter Systems
Solar inverters rely on stable power input to convert DC to AC efficiently, and LiFePO₄ is currently the only battery technology that provides the required stability, reducing downtime and improving overall system reliability.
Looking Ahead
As more urban residents seek cost-effective and uninterrupted power solutions, LiFePO₄ batteries are rapidly becoming the preferred choice for solar inverter systems.
Their ability to deliver consistent performance across varying conditions makes them exceptionally suited for both residential and commercial applications, driving the shift toward smarter energy use in Nigeria’s cities.
Assessing the economic benefits of my solar-powered inverter system with LiFePO4 batteries
Considering the unreliable power supply in Nigeria and my passion for environmentally friendly sources of electrical energy, I decided to upgrade my solar-powered inverter system sometime in September 2021 to achieve an off-grid connection for my frequently used appliances.
Find below details of the system upgrade.
- The existing 3.5kVA inverter was replaced with a 7.5kVA high-frequency type
- My 9.6kWh lead acid battery (AGM type) was replaced with 30kWh Lifepo4 battery pack
- And I increased the electrical energy from my solar panel array with additional panels to deliver up to 10.8kW during the peak period.
Find below an evaluation of the cost-benefit over a four-year operational period.
| Duration | Total cost of the system | Avg. Energy generated in 24hrs | Avg. Energy generated in 1year | Cost of 1kWh from Grid supply | Cost Saved using Solar power (4-Yr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Year ending Sept 2022 | N4,150,000 | 32kWh | 11,520kWh | N55.16 | N635,443 |
| 2nd Year ending Sept 2023 | N0.0 | 30kWh | 10,800kWh | N55.16 | N5G5,728 |
| 3rd Year ending Sept 2024 | N0.0 | 31kWh | 11,160kWh | Transition to N225.00 | N1,08G,43G |
| 4th Year ending Sept 2025 | N175,000 | 30kWh | 10,800kWh | N225.00 – N241.00 | N2,732,400 |
| TOTAL | N4,325,000 | N5,053,010 |
Highlights
- The initial investment has been fully recovered within approximately four years, without factoring in interest on the invested amount.
- With the recent hike in electricity tariff, the cost savings from solar power are expected to accelerate, making the system even more financially rewarding in the years ahead.
- The upgraded system featuring LiFePO₄ batteries offers an impressive lifespan of over 15 years, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Unlike the frequent instability associated with Nigeria’s grid power supply, this system delivers a consistently uninterrupted power experience, ensuring 24-hour dependable electrical power.
Considering the efficiency of the existing system, the LiFePO₄ battery pack was recently upgraded to a 60kWh capacity, integrated with a 24kVA smart inverter and a 30kW solar panel array.
This setup ensures a continuous power supply throughout the day and night, consistently supporting a load group with an average demand of 4kW, as long as daylight conditions remain favourable.
Conclusion
The transition to LiFePO₄ batteries represents a significant leap forward in Nigeria’s quest for reliable and sustainable power solutions.
With proven cost recovery within four years, exceptional longevity exceeding 15 years, and unmatched efficiency, LiFePO₄ technology is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity for anyone serious about energy independence.
At Remtronic Automations, we specialize in professional solar inverter installations featuring premium LiFePO₄ battery systems.
With over 10 years of experience and 350+ satisfied clients, our expert team provides comprehensive solutions, from system design and installation to training and maintenance support.
Whether you’re upgrading your existing setup or starting fresh, we deliver reliable, cost-effective solar solutions tailored to your power needs.
Ready to achieve uninterrupted power? Contact Remtronic Automations today at remtronics2014@gmail.com or +2348037683702.