—Predicts surge in competitive market,
By Lucky Efese
An expert and stakeholder in the power industry, Odion Omonfoman, has commended the Executive Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, for signing the Electricity Bill 2025 into law, saying the law repeals the Edo State Electricity Law 2022 and established a structured framework for intra-state electricity generation, transmission, distribution and regulation, aimed at setting a stage for more reliable and investor-friendly power sector in the State.
Omonfoman, a lead consultant on power to the Nigeria governors’ forum, who predicted increase in competitive market and more private sector investment in power generation, described the new law as a ”game-changer” for the state electricity sector.
According to him ” the new law provides a stable and transparent regulatory framework which will attract investment, improve electricity access and support industrialization”.
He added that the law positions the state as a leader in sub-national electricity reform which will create new opportunities for both local and international investors in power generation, mini grid solutions and renewable energy development, insisting that the new law establishes the foundation for the decentralization of power generation and distribution, which is strategic to meeting the electricity demand of Edo State’s industries, businesses and households
He noted that the signing of the Edo State Electricity Law 2025, marks the beginning of a new era for electricity governance with focus on market liberalisation, regulatory and sustainable energy development which is expected to drive economic growth and enhance energy security as well as positioning the state as a model to other states pursuing power sector reforms.
Meanwhile, the signing of the electricity law was undoubtedly in line with the Electricity Act 2023, which empowers states to regulate electricity within their jurisdictions.
The new Electricity Law in the state has laid a foundation for a competitive electricity market which will give smooth opportunities for private sector participation and Independent power producers (IPPs) to achieve its core values such as establishment of the Edo State Electricity Market which will allow public and private entities to generate, distribute and trade electricity within the state to improve service reliability and efficiency.
In addition, the law also ensures the creation of Regulatory and Institutional bodies to wit; Edo State Electricity Regulatory Commission ( ESERC), to oversee licensing, tariffs compliance and consumer protection; Edo State Electrification Agency, which will focus on expanding the scope of electricity access to rural communities; Edo State Electricity Transmission Company, to be responsible for intra-state transmission infrastructure and working in partnership with the national grid.
Also, the law enhances the establishment of Edo State Electricity Advisory Council, comprising industry experts and stakeholders in providing strategic guidance for power sector development, promotion of renewable energy sustainability goals and Consumer Protection and Service Accountability, which will regulate standards for electricity billing, metering and dispute resolution and imposition of penalties for vandalism, energy theft and service violations
