Enugu State Government has announced plans to increase its electricity capacity from the current 70 megawatts to 700 megawatts with the aid of private sector investment.
Governor Peter Mbah, speaking at a Stakeholders’ Engagement and Consultation organized by the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) on Tuesday, outlined this ambitious goal. The consultation was held to review draft regulatory instruments for the state’s electricity sector.
Mbah, represented by Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, emphasized that this expansion aligns with his administration’s vision to address the state’s power needs and elevate the state’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion.
He stressed the necessity of improving electricity capacity to achieve campaign promises related to water supply, security, education, and healthcare. The governor highlighted that the state would open up the entire electricity market value chain, including supply, generation, transmission, distribution, and retailing through both grid and off-grid solutions.
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Mbah assured stakeholders of EERC’s continued independence to operate free from political or administrative interference.
EERC Chairman, Chijioke Okonkwo, expressed concern over the current power deficit, noting that the state’s existing 70 megawatts is insufficient for industrial growth. Okonkwo set targets for Enugu State to consume 300 megawatts within two years and reach 700 megawatts by 2030.
He emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to build investor confidence and establish reliable, sustainable power services.
Siemens Energy Nigeria‘s Managing Director, Seun Suleiman, praised the state’s transparency and expressed support for captive power investors with Siemens’ gas turbines.
Acting Managing Director of the Infrastructure Bank, Nkiru Chime, underscored the need for funding to drive investment in the electricity market, highlighting the proactive steps taken by Enugu State in shaping its electricity sector.
