Beyond solar energy adoption: users’ battery choice and preference for lithium-ion battery

There has been a growing body of literature on solar energy adoption in developing countries. However, knowledge of solar energy users’ choice of battery technology remains limited. This study was conducted to examine the actual choice of solar energy battery technology and preference for advanced battery technology among solar energy users in Kano, Nigeria. The study employed survey research, administering 384 questionnaires to solar energy adopters using probability sampling. The study used descriptive statistics and regression analysis to analyse the data. Among other things, the findings revealed a significant discrepancy between actual choice and preference among solar energy users. The regression results identified economic variables, such as income and battery prices, as significant factors shaping battery choice. However, the users’ preference for lithium batteries is influenced by education, solar energy experience and the level of electricity needed. The study recommends that energy transition policies should prioritise making advanced energy technologies affordable.