When it comes to steady power supply, my country is suffering from epileptic power supply, or should I say my state, but as bad as it is, my area or neighborhood is still enjoying power supply to some extent. If not a hundred percent at least sixty percent. During the last quarter of last year up to the first quarter of this year, the national grid has fallen countless times than I can remember. As good as the electric supply is in my area, we've suffered a total blackout for quite some time this year where we have to go two or more days without light. This is in contrast to my former residence, where we have light two to three times a week, and we have no one to complain to. And these days, the electricity supply might just be three hours maximum, we don't get to enjoy electric supply for reasonable hours and people quickly adapt to any lifestyle in this country.
When we talk of substitution for government electricity supply, the solar panel comes into place; this has been saving lives, especially in this hot season when the weather is 40°c or more. Since morning today, there has been no power supply in my community, It is hot, but fortunately, thanks to solar panels, there was a bit of relief. What, then, can people with not enough sources of income to afford solar panels do? Definitely nothing; they have to endure the darkness, which will restrict them from doing some of the things they would have done if there was an electricity supply. I understand that electricity supply is rationed in some areas where some parts would have a power supply for a day or two before others who are next are given power supply. In some areas, when the light is on, it's like a savior has come, you will see people jubilating like there was a celebration because they know it might take a month or two before they enjoy such privilege again. In a year, some don't even get to enjoy electricity supply for two months in the twelve months that's in a year.
In my residence in school, during my first year living in that area, there was no electricity supply for a whole year. Luckily for me, there is a generator in the compound where I live that powers the whole house which makes me enjoy electricity at night till the following morning. Those who can't afford a solar panel and a generator because of the high price of petroleum have no choice but to adapt to the blackout till the day they are given an electricity supply.
In my house, we are using a prepaid meter but then it's more or less like it is a draining force this year compared to the last two years or even last year. Last year a sum of one thousand naira was given thirteen units which we can use for a week just to power electrical appliances in the house such as the television, fridge and freezer and the pumping machine and also to iron. But since the beginning of this year, lots of things have changed due to the change in administration. We are still hoping for the good promises made to us. It's so bad now that one thousand naira can only give four units, which is not enough to power the freezer, not to mention other appliances at home. The electricity tariff is so high that people can no longer afford to recharge their prepaid meters. Solar panels now seem to be the better option because aside from the purchase and installation, it is cost-efficient.
I believe there should be twenty-four hours of power supply just like any other developed country, and if this cannot be achieved, then the high electricity tariff should be removed, making it affordable for everyone to recharge their prepaid or pay bills, which won't tear their pockets. I know everyone can't own a solar panel in their houses but then if the direct electricity supply is made available, the less privileged would not be left in darkness.
Thanks for your time and your comments will be appreciated.