A Port Harcourt businessman has sparked conversation online after revealing the huge cost required to power his hotel with solar energy.
Mr. Ihemeje, the Chief Executive Officer of Portland Resorts Hotel, recently shared his experience while exploring alternative power options for his hospitality business.
According to Ihemeje, he contacted several solar companies to get quotes for installing a full solar power system that would run the hotel independently. However, the price he received surprised him. The lowest estimate, he said, was around ₦1.4 billion.
The hotel owner explained that while many people often advise businesses to switch to solar energy as a solution to Nigeria’s persistent electricity challenges, the cost involved can be overwhelming for many entrepreneurs.
Responding to those who constantly encourage businesses to adopt solar power, he jokingly suggested that those promoting the idea should also be willing to contribute financially, saying they could help support the project through a GoFundMe campaign.
Hotels, in particular, require large amounts of electricity to power air conditioners, lighting, kitchen equipment, laundry services and other facilities used by guests daily. Because of this high demand, installing a solar system capable of handling the load can come at a very high cost.
Investments and conversations like these expose the secret financial challenges businesses encounter when considering power option other than PHED, especially Port Harcourt where power supply issues often push companies to look for alternative energy sources.
