The Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) says it has intervened to address power shortages that have left parts of the state without adequate supply.
On July 21, the EERC reduced the Band A electricity tariff in Enugu to N160/kWh from N209, sparking concerns among electricity distribution companies (DisCos) and electricity generation companies (GenCos).
The management of Mainpower Electricity Distribution Limited (MEDL), on August 4, said parts of Enugu were facing power outage in various parts of the state following a recent tariff cut.
In a statement on Sunday, the EERC said it summoned MainPower Electricity to a meeting on August 7 to determine the DisCo’s reasons for reducing power supply and to address vending challenges faced by customers.
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This, the commission said, followed a public notice from MainPower “stating that EEDC, its parent company, instructed the reduction of power supply to Bands B to E Feeders” alongside vending difficulties being experienced by Enugu customers.
“During the meeting, MainPower disclosed that they (MainPower and EEDC) were encountering difficulties in isolating Enugu State from other states within EEDC’s service area. This issue, referred to as ‘code coverage conflicts and related glitches,’ would, however, be resolved soon,” the statement reads.
“The Commission, nonetheless, directed MainPower to formally inform customers about the vending challenges and the steps being taken to resolve them.”
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On power supply reduction and dissatisfaction over the tariff order, the commission said it reminded MainPower of the provisions in its business rules.
According to the EERC, the rules require the DisCo to submit a formal petition within 30 days of the order if dissatisfied, rather than resorting to power cuts.
“The petition will trigger a public hearing on the Tariff Order, and the outcome will be implemented. The Business Rules can be accessed by all stakeholders on the Commission’s website (www.eerc.en.gov.ng),” the statement further said.
“The Commission is engaging relevant stakeholders at both state and federal levels and will apply the appropriate regulatory measures to ensure that developers, service providers, customers, and Ndi Enugu benefit fully from the evolving subnational electricity market in the state.”
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The EERC also said it would ensure MainPower generates enough revenue to cover its efficient operating costs in Enugu, “along with a fair return on invested capital, as stipulated in section 34 (2)(b) of the Enugu State Electricity Law 2023″.
