The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) has officially ended its operations in Enugu State, handing over its distribution responsibilities to Mainpower Electricity Distribution Limited, a subsidiary of EEDC.
This transition marks a significant regulatory shift, with the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) assuming oversight from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
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In a ceremony held in Enugu, the Chairman/CEO of EERC, Mr. Chijioke Okonkwo, presented an interim operating license to Mainpower Electricity Distribution Limited. Okonkwo urged Mainpower to prioritize reliable, efficient, and sustainable power delivery to residents of Enugu State.
He emphasized the importance of accountability and collaboration with EERC to ensure the growth of the electricity sector.
With the issuance of the license, EEDC’s operations in Enugu State have officially concluded, transferring full regulatory and operational control to Mainpower.
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This also means that NERC will no longer regulate the electricity market in Enugu, which now falls under EERC’s jurisdiction.
Mr. Kester Enwereonu, a Board member of Mainpower, described the successful transition as a milestone for power sector reforms.
He outlined Mainpower’s commitment to deploying advanced technologies and innovative processes to overcome traditional challenges in electricity distribution.
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Enwereonu highlighted that Mainpower’s approach will be data-driven, focusing on enhancing efficiency and ensuring consistent power delivery throughout the state.
“This is a forward-looking step for Enugu State,” Enwereonu remarked.
“With the regulatory guidance of EERC, our dedication to operational excellence, and the backing of our stakeholders, Mainpower is prepared to deliver the quality improvements that the people of Enugu deserve.”
Dr. Ernest Mupwaya, Managing Director of Mainpower, was also in attendance at the licensing ceremony.
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This transition aligns with the provisions of the recently signed Electricity Act, which enables Nigerian states to generate, transmit, and distribute power independently.
States are now required to establish their own regulatory bodies to oversee local electricity markets and grant licenses to investors.
Consequently, NERC will transfer its oversight responsibilities to state-based commissions, such as the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC).
As a result, EEDC’s presence in Enugu State concludes, while Mainpower assumes its role as the state’s sole electricity distributor. EEDC will continue its operations in other southeastern states, including Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Imo.
Emeka Ezeh, Head, Corporate Communications, EEDC
22/10/2024
