CROSS River government has engaged critical stakeholders on review of electricity policy in line with what is obtainable in the energy sector
The government said the review become imperative to be able to meet up with new trends in the industry and enable electricity consumers to enjoy alternative source of energy as well drive the local economy.
Speaking at the stakeholders' meeting held recently at Hogis Luxury Hotels in Calabar, the Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams, stated that Governor Bassey Out gave the mandate for review the electricity policy to ensure the state remains on par with others.
The commissioner emphasised that stakeholders were carefully selected from various power sectors to engage in discussions aimed at fine-tuning the policy for the benefit of the state, addinh that an independent consultant had been tasked with reviewing the policy and making it more robust and investment-friendly.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the State Electrification Agency (SEA), Mr. Francis Ekpo, expressed concerns over the lack of power supply in certain parts of the state, citing vandalism of power infrastructure as a major challenge. He highlighted that restoring power to these areas is a daunting task.
Ekpo pointed out that funding remains a fundamental issue in the power sector, stressing that the electricity policy should remain free from political interference in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity.
The Special Adviser on Power, Engr. Emmanuel Nkpeh, highlighted the opportunities presented by the 2023 Electricity Amendment Act. He noted that the Act empowers both states and independent power investors to harness significant opportunities.
Engr. Nkpeh further explained that the Act grants states the authority to issue licenses to private investors, allowing them to set up and operate mini-grids and power plants within the state.
He added that the policy will clearly define its objectives, scope, and include provisions for licensing and permits, market structure, investor protection, and implementation strategies that will ultimately benefit citizens.
Addressing concerns about the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company, Engr. Nkpeh stated that the problem does not lie with the company but rather with consumers who fail to adhere to the rules and regulations.
According to him, successful implementation of the policy will provide solutions to the state’s electricity challenges.
The Vice Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) for Cross River and Akwa Ibom, Bishop Usen Umo, commended the state government for developing the electricity policy.
He stressed that power is a critical issue for the manufacturing sector, with the private sector suffering due to power instability.
Bishop Umo expressed optimism that the policy, if successfully implemented, will provide significant relief to manufacturers and bring visible benefits.
An in-depth presentation on the Cross River State Electricity Policy was made by the independent consultant, Sharfudden Zubair Mahmoud, Fnim.
Ndifreke Bassey, Beagle News
