Anambra electricity authority guarantees enhanced power supply to locals

The Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission is advocating for a more collaborative approach between electricity distribution companies and consumers to achieve enhanced service delivery throughout the state, while also requesting residents to remain patient amidst the current power supply challenges.

n

During a two-day interactive town hall meeting that commenced on Wednesday at the Umuenem Civic Centre in Nnewi, the Managing Director of ASERC, Prof. Frank Okafor, expressed confidence that a steady electricity supply would be achieved in the near future, as the focus is now on the state's emerging electricity market.

n

Okafor, who spoke on the theme "Public Consultation on Draft Regulations," emphasized that community engagement would play a crucial role in addressing issues such as energy theft, vandalism, and estimated billing, ultimately leading to improved service delivery.

n

The forum, organised by ASERC, an independent regulatory body established under the Anambra State Electricity Law, 2025, aims to oversee and develop the state's electricity market, and according to Okafor, the ongoing dialogue on public consultation on draft electricity regulations will shape the Anambra electricity market.

n

Okafor stated that the goal of the public consultation is to ensure quality service delivery and encourage investment in critical infrastructure by distribution companies, adding that ASERC is mandated to oversee, guide, and develop all electricity activities within Anambra State for the benefit of citizens, investors, and operators.

n

ASERC has the authority to license operators, set and review tariffs, enforce standards, and protect the rights of electricity consumers, and operates with full autonomy, ensuring that decisions are made transparently and in the public interest.

n

The commission regulates the generation, transmission, system operation, distribution, supply, and trading of electricity within the state, while promoting fair competition, efficiency, and private sector participation, Okafor explained.

n

Okafor also assured investors and stakeholders of the commission's support for innovation in renewable and clean energy solutions to expand electricity access across urban and rural communities.

n

The ultimate goal of ASERC, according to Okafor, is to build a transparent, competitive, and sustainable electricity market that drives industrial growth, enhances quality of life, and contributes to the prosperity of Anambra State.

n

Okafor explained that the purpose of the consultation was to address concerns raised by electricity consumers, particularly in Nnewi, and assured them that challenges relating to poor power supply would soon be addressed, urging residents to visit the commission's website for more information on its activities.

n

The event was attended by officials of FirstPower Distribution Company Limited, the member representing Ihiala II Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Golden Iloh, community leaders, civil society organisations, stakeholders, and electricity consumers.

n

Residents who raised concerns during the session were assured of improved services through sustained engagement and collaboration.