Researchers from the University of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom (UK) have developed a new solar-powered energy device to provide reliable electricity to households and small businesses in remote communities, offering a low-cost solution to Nigeria’s long-standing electricity challenges.

The initial phase of the Powerbox project was funded by Innovate UK.

Known as the Powerbox SE, the device was developed by Hertfordshire Business School in collaboration with Nigerian manufacturers. Designed for off-grid communities, it provides a self-charging source of electricity capable of powering essential household and business appliances, including lights, fans, laptops, blenders and washing machines.

The project has already been tested in Kaduna State, where 70 units have been deployed. According to the research team, the pilot has improved access to electricity, supported small businesses and enhanced the quality of life for users.

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The project is led by Professor Hafiz Alaka, associate Dean (Research and Enterprise) at Hertfordshire Business School and Director of the University’s Big Data Tech & Innovation Lab.

He said, “I grew up in Nigeria and have seen first-hand how unreliable or non-existent electricity limits opportunities for millions of people. Many households and small businesses are too far from the national grid to access power, and this affects everything from trade to communication and education”.

“It offers a sustainable, low-cost solution, runs entirely on clean solar energy, has no running costs, and is made from components that can be sourced locally in Nigeria”.

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Powered entirely by solar energy, the device absorbs around 1,200 watt-hours of solar energy each day and stores enough electricity to meet the basic needs of a household of four. Users can charge the unit through its built-in solar panels or connect it to external panels supplied as part of a low-cost package.

For Amina Yusuf, who runs a grocery shop in Kaduna State, the technology has made a noticeable difference.

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The launch of the device follows another innovation led by Professor Alaka. Earlier, he secured more than $2 million in United Nations funding to develop So-Cool, an AI and solar-powered food storage system designed to reduce food waste and improve food security by extending the shelf life of produce from smallholder farmers.

Professor Alaka said, “This product is starting to bring people together in a way no other technology can sustainably, affordably, and through a locally made product. With investment, we can extend access to clean energy to millions who have never had reliable electricity before.”

The University of Hertfordshire is working with Powerbox Energy Systems Nigeria and Nigerian manufacturing partner MHUB to manufacture and distribute the units at scale.

The Powerbox SE has an expected lifespan of eight to 10 years and produces a standard 220–240V AC output. It takes between eight and 10 hours to charge using solar energy, requires minimal maintenance and has no running costs. The device is expected to retail for around $250,  for households and small businesses.

Ngozi Ekugo is a Senior Correspondent at BusinessDay. She holds a Masters in management from the University of Lagos, an undergraduate from University of Lagos, and is in an alumni of Queen's College. Shes currently an associate member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM). She has a brief experience at Goldman sachs, London in its Human Capital Management division. She is interested in human capital development and is leveraging her varied experience across sectors to report labour and global mobility trends for stakeholders to make informed decisions.

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