Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC), on Thursday issued an electricity generation license to an investor, Tempo Power Solutions Ltd. for a five mega-watt gas-fired power generation plant to be sited in Enugu State.
The electricity generating plant, which would be first of its kind in use of modern technology, would serve commercial and residential concerns within Enugu metropolis with a possibility of expansion.
Speaking during the event, the Chairman of EERC, Mr Chijioke Okonkwo, said the event reflects growing confidence that the private sector players have in the Enugu State Government’s vision in creating conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
“Following a six-month transition period, we successfully completed the transfer of regulatory oversight from the national regulator (NERC) to EERC on Oct. 22, 2024.
“Since then, we have issued interim licenses to Mainpower Electricity Distribution Limited and a 10MW (10 mega-watt) power generation license to Fedikore Limited; currently working with stakeholders to explore the vast opportunities within the Enugu State electricity sector.
“EERC have successfully resolved over 60 customer complaint issues. We are reviewing four license applications covering generation, electricity distribution and electricity retail,” he said.
Okonkwo noted that it was clear that Enugu State was open to energy business and called on the investors and stakeholders in the electricity business to harness the wealth of natural energy resources in the state.
“Our development-focused governor had invested heavily on security of lives and property; invested heavily in network of access roads; solid regulatory framework and doing more to ensure that the state attracts high net worth individuals and businesses,” he said.
The chairman lauded Tempo Power Solutions for taking the advantage of this opportunity offered by the conducive investment climate in Enugu State, engaging an off taker and successfully completing the application process for the generation license.
“Their project is a model of proactive engagement and strategic partnership, and the successful deployment of this five mega-watt (5MW) power plant is a collective win for all of us.
“We are confident that as the market grows, Tempo Power Solutions will continue to scale up its capacity,” he said.
Responding, the Executive Director of Tempo Power Solutions Limited, Mr Collins Kalabare, appreciated the government and people of Enugu State for envisioning and wanting rapid development by embracing uninterrupted power supply.
“As a reputable and responsible company, we are offering uninterrupted electricity supply, cost reflective tariff and electricity supply meant to add value to commercial and residential concerns as well as grow businesses and general economy of the state.
“I must appreciate the EERC for the professional, business-minded and openness of their processes and operations. The process is seamless and you do not need to known anybody.
“EERC is indeed working according to the vision and speed of Gov Peter Mbah, who we have learnt is in a hurry to develop and make Enugu State economy grow and uplift the general status of residents and businesses,” he said.