NERC gives 4th state autonomy to regulate power

From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja

Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued an order to transfer regulatory oversight of the electricity market in Ogun State to the Ogun State Electricity Regulatory Commission (OGERC).

This, according to NERC, is in compliance with the amended constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFRN) and the Electricity Act 2023 (as amended).

The Electricity Act of 2023 is a law that was adopted by the Nigerian Government on June 9, 2023. The Act aims to liberalise the electricity sector and promote the use of renewable energy. It also gives state governments more authority in areas like transmission and distribution.

Some of the key features of the Electricity Act of 2023 include
liberalisation of the generation aspect of the power supply chain; ensuring the use of renewable energy technologies and allowing state governments to generate power

The act liberalises the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity at the national level and
encourages the use of renewable energy technologies and prioritises their development.

It also allows state governments to participate in areas that were previously the reserved of the federal government.

However, a licence is required for electricity generation, transmission, distribution, supply trading, and system operation.

Recall that this is about the fourth transfer of regulatory authority to state governments this year.
On April 22, NERC transferred regulatory role to Enugu Government.

On July 1, the commission transferred regulatory power to the newly-created Imo State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ISERC).

Also on August 6, this year, NERC relinquished power supply function in Oyo State Government to OSERC

Similarly, NERC relinquished its regulatory powers to Abia State Government. ENDS