Fake Solar Panels Can Cause Fire Outbreaks, Experts Warn

Energy experts have warned that counterfeit solar products are exposing Nigerians to fire hazards, equipment failure, and financial losses as demand for alternative power sources continues to rise.

They gave the warning in separate interviews on Wednesday, urging consumers to buy only genuine products from authorised dealers.

Atinuke Owolabi, managing director of Wurvicat International, said batteries, inverters, solar panels, charge controllers, cables, and connectors were the products most commonly counterfeited.

She said fake batteries and inverters posed the greatest safety risks because they could overheat, fail prematurely, and even cause fire incidents.

Owolabi urged consumers to inspect products carefully before making purchases. She advised buyers to verify manufacturers’ names, serial numbers, QR codes, certification labels, warranty documents, and overall product quality.