Ekiti State Government has put mechanism in place to unbundle the power generation component of its electrity supply chain with the ultimate goal of increasing energy access to unserved and under-served customers across the State.
The State Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof. Mobolaji Aluko made this known during a stakeholders meeting on Electricity Distribution network in the state to ensure access to power supply at the affordable cost by the consumers.
Aluko explained that most parts of the state are under-served while other areas are completely unserved, hence the need to take proactive steps by partnering with independent investors to increase electricity generation and ensure that the existing network lines are well maximized for use in the state.
He stated that the step would give room for interested independent investors to generate electricity to the advantage of users.
Aluko sought for collaborative efforts from the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) and the interested investors to make use of the existing network lines for electricity generation.
and deliberate on the frame works that would enhance quick positive service delivery to open access on Electricity deregulation in the state.
The Commissioner emphasized that the investors cannot work in isolation, hence the need to synergize with BEDC in order to make use of their network lines towards achieving adequate power supply for in the state.
He added that, for a country or a state to thrive economically, it needs electricity, especially in having access to water supply, sanitation and hygiene.
The Executive Secretary,
Ekiti State Electricity Regulatory Bureau, Samson David assured the investors that the Bureau will do everything necessary to ensure that the partnership with the State yields results.
He charged the BEDC to be open for partnership with investors to operate on their network lines for energy generation.
Responding on behalf of the Independent investors, HRH Odidiomo Afolabi of Ayigba implored the BEDC to consider the options that will make their existing network lines useful and active.
He sought for synergy and Frenchize from the DISCO and Benin Electricity Distribution Company to get a better service delivery.
Mr Ademola Agoro of Protogy Global services, said the Independent electricity distribution networks will give adequate access to reliable and accessible energy, noting that unstable electricity undermines education, health and economic systems entirely.
He highlighted some key steps that would enhance more access to energy generation which included need for change in management process, provision of a central platform for energy flow, imploring modern approach of doing things to get different results among others.
One of the staff of the BEDC, Mr. Ibukun Ojo, while responding emphasized that there was no problem in generating energy and leveraging on the existing network lines, but there is a need to closely manage and protect their network.
“BEDC will not tolerate their existing network lines being damaged, suggesting that a framework needed to be developed in order to fast track and achieve increase in electricity generation in the State.
He however said the collaboration must be done with a solid framework without undermining other companies, adding that they are open to collaboration but urged them to also follow due process.
In attendance were physical and virtual Stakeholders.