By Abdullahi Lukman
Nigerians have been advised to adopt better economic management of boreholes and water resources, with a strong push toward solar-powered systems to cut costs and improve livelihoods.
Engr. Michael Ale, a development and water resources expert and Chief Executive Officer of Retrofit, said continued reliance on conventional energy sources such as petrol and diesel to power boreholes is financially unsustainable and could worsen economic hardship for households and communities.
Ale spoke during an event marking the company’s milestone of managing 100 boreholes since its establishment in November 2025.
At the ceremony, the firm also launched a high-output, two-horsepower (2HP) solar-powered pump system designed for durability, efficiency and long-term reliability.
The system operates entirely on solar energy, reducing time, fuel expenses and maintenance costs.
According to him, transitioning to renewable-powered borehole systems promotes healthier living and shields families from the rising cost of grid electricity and fossil fuels.
He described the continued use of conventional energy for water supply as an act of financial indiscipline that can erode household income.
Ale encouraged Nigerians to embrace clean energy solutions for water and housing infrastructure, noting that solar systems reduce environmental impact while lowering long-term operational costs.
He further disclosed plans to construct additional borehole facilities this year and upgrade thousands of abandoned projects by converting them to renewable energy systems.
He also commended banks that subsidize solar installations for homes and urged financial institutions to extend similar support to borehole retrofitting projects, especially amid current economic pressures.