Starting 2026 Right: 8 Renewable Energy Myths Nigerians Should Finally Let Go Of

As Nigerians step into 2026 with fresh goals and tighter budgets, conversations around clean energy are becoming even more urgent.

Solar adoption continues to rise across different areas, from rural communities powered by mini-grids to commercial facilities looking to escape unpredictable energy costs. Yet, misconceptions still slow down progress.

Here are eight myths we should leave behind for good, and what the evidence actually shows.

1. “Solar only works when the sun is out.”

You may have heard this quite a lot, and the belief couldn’t be more fallacious.

Solar panels need daylight, not direct hot sun. Even on cloudy days, panels generate electricity. And with the right batteries (like those powering mini-grids), communities enjoy good supply of electricity, even at night. 

So, the next time you hear someone talk about the limitations of solar in terms of sunlight, remind them that the storage feature in solar solutions fixes this.

2. “Solar is too expensive for small businesses.”

Upfront cost is no longer the barrier it used to be. Improved financing, ranging from payment plans to Pay-As-You-Go and mini-grid tariffs, means businesses can start benefiting without heavy capital.

Also, because solar eliminates diesel costs, owners often break even much faster than expected. Learn more about financing options for solar here.

3. “Mini-grids can’t power productive machines.”

This couldn’t be farther from the truth. Modern mini-grids are built to power everything from welding machines to milling equipment, freezers, clippers, pumping machines and industrial sewing devices. Rural businesses across Nigeria are already scaling because productive-use appliances now run on solar without interruptions.

Havenhill Synergy has helped several entrepreneurs with their businesses through our Appliance Finance scheme, which allows them to purchase appliances such as refrigerators, sewing machines, etc, at an affordable rate and with a workable payment plan.

4. “Solar stops working after two years.”

Quality systems have long lifespans. Panels can last 20–25 years with minimal maintenance, and batteries typically run for years before replacement. Well-designed systems, like those deployed by Havenhill Synergy, are engineered for reliability.

Many Nigerians hesitate to install solar because of the perceived high upfront costs. However, what’s often overlooked is the return on investment (ROI) solar energy offers over time. The average solar installation has a lifespan of 25 years or more. During this period, you essentially eliminate or drastically reduce your electricity and fuel expenses. 

READ ALSO: Lessons Learnt in 2025: Renewable Energy, Mini-Grids & the Power of Access in Africa

5. “Batteries must be replaced annually.”

Modern lithium batteries have strong durability when sized correctly. Many last 5–10 years, depending on usage cycles and maintenance. The misconception often comes from low-quality or poorly sized systems, not from clean energy itself.

To make the most of solar power, you need a reliable way to store the energy your solar panels generate. This is where batteries come in. In this article, we look at four popular types of batteries.

6. “Diesel is cheaper in the long run.”

This myth is now outdated. With rising fuel costs, maintenance issues, noise, and pollution, diesel generators cost far more over time. Solar-powered businesses enjoy predictable bills, no noise, and significantly lower lifetime costs.

7. “Only big companies benefit from solar.”

Micro-entrepreneurs, small shops, salons, cold-room operators, tailors, market women -everyone benefits from reliable electricity. In many rural communities, solar mini-grids have helped people extend working hours, increase production, and grow revenue.

8. “Solar can’t be financed.”

There are now more financing options than ever – leasing, PPAs, installment plans, donor-backed interventions, and community models. Solar doesn’t require a single, huge payment anymore; it can be structured to fit a business’s cash flow.

The bottom line

2026 should be the year Nigerians embrace accurate information about clean energy. With better financing, improved technology, and rising demand for reliable power, solar isn’t the “future”; it’s already here. Clearing out these myths helps households, businesses, and entire communities make smarter energy decisions. Clean energy is no longer a luxury but a smart economic choice. Let’s start the year on the right note.

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