Anambra Issues License To Power Firm For Electricity Distribution
Chinedum Treasure
Anambra State government has issued an interim license to the First Power Electricity Distribution Company Limited (FPEDC) as electricity distributor in the state.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman, Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ASERC), Prof. Frank Okafor said the transfer of power was to ensure steady power supply in every part of the state.
According to him, Gov Chukwuma Soludo-led administration is committed to making the state a choice destination by way of making power less of a luxury in the state.
While disclosing that the temporary license would last for one year, Okafor said the commission was optimistic of improved power supply.
He promised to ensure thorough oversight over the activities of the company to ensure targets were met.
“Today, history is made in our dear Anambra State. A journey to adequately regulate the energy sector, in particular, the Electricity Business in Anambra State, has commenced.
“We thank the Anambra State House of Assembly, who brought the Anambra State Electricity Law (ANEL) into life," he added.
Managing Director Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), Engr. Praveen Chorghade described the license issuance as important milestone in a transition that would ultimately deliver vibrant, competitive and dynamic electricity market in the State.
Chorghade, represented by Engr Dr Ernest Mupwaya said, "We are determined to invest in infrastructure, deploy technology that enhances efficiency, strengthen customer engagement and support emergence of a resilient and future-ready electricity market.
"FirstPower as EEDC subsidiary is responsible for distribution activities within Anambra State, although operated under the NERC licence issued to EEDC.
"The objective is to ensure that the people and businesses of Anambra enjoy reliable, affordable and sustainable power that drives economic prosperity and social wellbeing.
Chorghade maintained that the reforms introduced by the Electricity Act of 2023 have fundamentally reshaped the structure, governance, and future growth trajectory of our sector.
“For the first time, states have been empowered to craft regulatory frameworks, electricity laws, policies and market structures tailored to the specific needs of their geographies.
"This bold decentralisation has ignited a wave of innovation across the country, and Anambra State has emerged as one of the leading examples of strategic, deliberate and visionary implementation”.
The EEDC boss however assured that EEDC and FirstPower are fully aligned with the state’s development aspirations.
"The reforms being implemented have created enabling conditions for accelerated investment, network expansion, improved customer service and modernisation of the electricity value chain.
“Our growth plans for FirstPower are deliberately structured to complement the state’s industrialisation agenda, urban expansion, agricultural development and SME competitiveness," he stated.
Chorghade also confirmed that FirstPower is ready to operate as a fully licensed entity under the state’s regulatory framework while continuing to uphold the highest standards of service delivery, safety, environmental stewardship and operational excellence.
Earlier, Managing Director, FPEDC, Mr Okechukwu Okafor said the licensing was to formalise the company’s presence in the state.
"We want to inform stakeholders that EEDC is no longer in charge but an independent body saddled with the responsibility of distributing electricity in Anambra state.
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“We are going to partner with the industrialists, the state government, and Ndi Anambra for them to understand that our presence is geared towards a better solution to electricity.
"We want to change the negative perception of power extortion against customers, hence our target is to make them happy. We need to take the message to them, provided there is goodwill.
"We also hope that by the end of 2027, all customers will be billed right by ensuring that they are metered for easy accountability," he added.
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