Abstract

Solar Energy is under utilized in Nigeria hence, the need for the review recent work in the sector to create more awareness and to educate toward better ways of improvement to enhance better use. More than 80 percent of energy consumption is made by petroleum. This consumption requirement is a serious concern for the country due to depletion of petroleum and negative impact on our environment such as pollution and increase in global warming. This work presents an intensive review of recent developments on solar energy systems in Nigeria in order to itself score card for decisive action. The work x-rays the present status of solar energy system in Nigeria and identifies solar energy as a critical factor for its economic development. The research captures application of solar energy systems and its contributions to the development of the various sectors of economy such as agricultural processing, rural electrification, engineering and medical services. It's also highlights and discusses factors militating against the use of solar energy systems in Nigeria in recent times. In addition, the research also shows sample solar energy system sizing calculation to illustrate load survey which determines the capacities of solar components and finally makes some useful recommendations to forestall the setbacks in embracing the photovoltaic technology. The work will inform a lay man with the needed guide as regard the best way of Solar Energy application in the country.