In a landmark move for Nigeria’s power sector, the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) is poised to take control of the state’s electricity market, becoming the first in the nation to assume regulatory oversight from the national body. This transfer of authority, effective May 1, 2024, marks a significant shift in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) officially ceded its regulatory powers over Enugu’s electricity market, paving the way for a state-driven approach. This decision comes after Enugu established its own regulatory body, the EERC.
The move signifies a new era of decentralization within the NESI. While NERC will retain its central role overseeing interstate and international electricity matters, Enugu will now have the authority to regulate its own intrastate electricity market, including the power to set electricity tariffs tailored to local conditions.
This is a significant development for Enugu, potentially granting the state more control over its power sector and the ability to address electricity challenges specific to the region. The success of this model will be closely watched by other states in Nigeria, who may seek to follow suit in the future.
