Power Minister unveils short term focus

In a commitment to enhance electricity supply nationwide, the short-term focus in the power sector will prioritize Metering, distribution, and transmission infrastructure. Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, announced this shift during the 3rd Roundtable on Enforcement of Technical Standards, Regulations, and Mandate of NEMSA. Adelabu highlighted the upcoming power sector strategy roadmap, emphasizing a bottom-up approach to prioritize impact over the previous top-down strategies.

Adelabu outlined the strategy, stating, “We will focus on customers, down to distribution and transmission infrastructures in the short term, ensuring a significant portion of currently generated power reaches consumers.”

He assured attention to the generation segment, particularly in Distributed Power (Embedded) from Renewable energy sources, while concurrently advancing baseload power through Thermal and Hydro plants in the medium to long term.

The Minister emphasized regional energy potentials, citing Solar energy in the North, small hydro power plants in the Middle belt and South west, hybridized with Solar for maximum output. Coastal cities were identified for wind energy utilization. These strategies will be revealed after a forthcoming retreat with electricity value chain stakeholders.

Adelabu urged NEMSA to adapt to the decentralization of the sector, with state governments participating under the new Electricity Act of 2023. He assured NEMSA of support, acknowledging the increased responsibilities at both federal and state levels.

Highlighting the Devolution of Powers to states through the Electricity Act 2023, Adelabu stressed NEMSA’s role as the lead enforcer of technical and regulatory standards. He encouraged collective efforts towards achieving the government’s mandate for regular and sustainable power supply.

Engr. Tukur Tahil Aliyu, CEO of NEMSA, outlined the agency’s responsibilities under the Electricity Act 2023, including the endorsement of technical standards and regulations, inspection, testing, and certification of electricity installations and instruments.

The Minister concluded by stating collaboration with the National Council on Power to develop the integrated National Electricity Policy and Strategic Implementation Plan for submission to the Federal Executive Council. Participants at the event, including legislative representatives, emphasized the power sector’s critical role in the economy.