Impact of Solar Photovoltaic System in Residential Homes and Industries in Akure, Ondo State

Akinduro Ifeoluwa Reuben
Department of Industrial Technology and Vocational Education
Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko Ondo State
Email: ifeoluwa.akinduro@aaua.edu.ng

Abstract: This study explores how solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are influencing residential homes and industries in Akure, Ondo State. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and the study covered 240 homes and 30 industry owners. Using simple random sampling, 80 homes and 20 industry owners were selected. Data was gathered through a structured questionnaire validated by three experts from the Department of Industrial Technology and Vocational Education, Adekunle Ajasin University. To ensure reliability, a pilot test involving fifteen homes outside the study area was conducted, and the instrument produced a Cronbach Alpha coefficient of 0.78. The questionnaire was administered with the help of two research assistants, and the collected data was analyzed using mean and standard deviation for the research questions, while t-test was used to test the hypotheses at the 0.05 level of significance. Findings showed that solar PV systems offer strong independence from utility supply, demonstrate high persistence, and are considered reliable due to their low maintenance demands. Results also indicated no significant difference between the views of homeowners and industry owners regarding the impact of solar PV systems in Akure. However, several challenges were identified, including high import taxes on solar panels, costly system maintenance, limited awareness of solar PV benefits, high upfront costs, inadequate policies promoting the solar market, and high interest rates on solar-related purchases. Based on these findings, the study recommends regular workshops and training for technical personnel as well as government policies that support solar PV users, which would enhance adoption and effective utilization of solar PV systems.