Here are 3 options for remote workers who need stable electricity

Living or working in Nigeria for any length of time quickly teaches you one thing: the electricity supply can be... let’s say... unpredictable. If you’re a remote worker relying on a steady connection to get things done, power outages are more than just inconvenient—they’re productivity killers. But fear not! There are solutions to help you stay powered up and stress-free.

And no, I’m not talking about crossing your fingers every time NEPA (or PHCN —the national grid, for the modern folks) decides to play hide and seek with the power grid. There are real solutions—ranging from portable gadgets to solar power systems—that can keep you working, even if the lights go out.

Picture this: You’re on a video call with an international client, presenting your brilliant project idea. Just as you’re about to land the final point, the screen goes black, the fan stops, and your heart sinks. The power’s gone. Your internet router follows, and you’re left explaining yourself through WhatsApp. Frustrating, right?

For those watching from outside Nigeria, yes, this is real. Remote workers here have to navigate frequent power cuts while juggling deadlines. But hey, if you can thrive in this, you can thrive anywhere, right?

So, let’s explore three options that could keep you working smoothly, no matter what NEPA decides to do.

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1. Portable Power Stations: 

Think of these as the super-sized cousins of power banks. Portable power stations can power your laptop, phone, and maybe a few other small devices during outages. They're compact, easy to move, and a great short-term fix when you're caught off guard.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to move around (perfect for digital nomads).
• Silent—no annoying humming or fuel fumes to deal with.
• Eco-friendly—thanks to rechargeable batteries.
• Plug-and-play simplicity.

Cons:

• Limited power. Don’t expect to run your fridge or air conditioner on these.
• Takes hours to fully recharge (so it’s not ideal for frequent use).
• More expensive than you'd expect, given its short-term benefits.

When to Choose It: If you need something portable and quick for occasional outages, this is your go-to. Just make sure it fits your budget (and your power needs).

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2. Home Inverters: 

A home inverter is a permanent backup system that kicks in automatically when the grid fails. Connected to a battery bank, it stores electricity, keeping your lights on and devices running while you wait for power to come back.

Pros:

• Can power multiple devices and even some larger appliances.
• Automatic—you don’t have to do anything when the power cuts out.
• Can last longer than portable options, depending on battery size.
• More cost-effective over time, especially if you’re in for the long run.

Cons:

• Fixed in one spot—this isn’t something you can take to your coworking space.
• Requires regular maintenance (batteries, ugh).
• May give off a slight hum, depending on the model.

When to Choose It: Ideal for home offices or places where you need reliable backup for longer periods. It’s cost-effective in the long run and handles multiple devices without breaking a sweat.

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3. Solar Inverters: 

This is the most sustainable option out there. Solar inverters use sunlight to generate electricity and power your home or office. They’re connected to solar panels and store excess energy in batteries for use during outages—or even on cloudy days.

Pros:

• Reduces dependence on the grid entirely.
• Environmentally friendly—hello, reduced carbon footprint!
• Huge savings in the long run, even though the upfront cost is high.
• Scalable—add more panels and batteries as your needs grow.

Cons:

• High initial setup cost.
• Performance depends on weather (yes, even in sunny Nigeria, cloudy days happen).
• Requires space for the solar panels (so, not for apartment dwellers).

When to Choose It: If you’re serious about long-term energy independence and don’t mind the upfront investment, this is your best bet. It’s eco-friendly, and over time, the savings will outweigh the initial cost.

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The Most Affordable Setup for 24/7 Electricity

For those watching their wallets, a small solar system with a 1 kW capacity, paired with a quality inverter and battery, could be the solution you need. It won’t power your entire home, but it’ll keep your laptop, router, and essential devices running smoothly. Over time, it saves money compared to relying on generators or the grid.

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How to Choose the Right Solar System

If solar sounds appealing, here’s what to look for:

• Capacity and Scalability: Ensure the system meets your current needs and can grow with you.
• Battery Storage: Go for lithium-ion batteries—they last longer and are more efficient.
• Efficiency and Warranty: Pick panels with high efficiency, and check for warranties to avoid early replacements.

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3 Red Flags When Choosing a Solar Company

Because no one wants to end up ranting on social media about a bad installation experience, here are the top things to avoid:

1. Lack of Experience: Steer clear of companies with little or no track record. Go for those with solid experience and positive customer reviews.
2. Hidden Costs: Don’t fall for suspiciously low quotes. Make sure every expense—maintenance, service fees, etc.—is clear from the get-go.
3. Poor Customer Support: You’ll need ongoing support, so choose a company known for good after-sales service.

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Wrapping It Up

In the battle against unreliable electricity, there are clear winners. Whether you go for a portable solution, a home inverter, or a solar setup, make sure it suits your needs, your budget, and your lifestyle. With the right backup system, you’ll no longer be at the mercy of NEPA—and you’ll finally be able to work with peace of mind.

And if you’re outside Nigeria wondering how people work through all this? Welcome to the reality of working in a place where power is as unpredictable as the weather. But with the right prep, anything’s possible—even productivity in the face of frequent blackouts

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