The Government of Ekiti State, led by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has inaugurated the first Independent Power Project (IPP) in Ekiti State, achieved through a partnership with Fenchurch Power Ltd to independently generate 3.6MW for the State Government. This initiative aims to enhance electricity supply, augmenting the total available megawatts for consumption in addition to what the state receives from the national grid.
Initiated under the immediate past governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, about two years ago, the project sought to address the insufficient electricity supply to Ekiti, where the national grid provided an average of 13 MW daily to the entire state. This inadequate power supply resulted in severe shortages, leaving some communities without power for an average of 8–12 years. However, given the rapid expansion of Ado-Ekiti and other emerging urban centers, it became evident that resolving erratic electricity supply required significant and innovative interventions by the state.
The current administration has implemented effective measures, resulting in positive changes and an improved electricity supply. The Gbonyin Aiyekire and Ekiti East 33KV lines have been rehabilitated and reconnected to the national grid. Energy from the 30MVA transformer at the TCN facility at Omisanjana has been redirected to the Industrial and Tourism zone of Erijiyan and Ikogosi. Electricity has been extended to the Agric-Processing Zone of Iyemero from Eruku in Kwara State, with transformers for nearby communities. The state capital’s commercial hours have been extended by switching from conventional streetlight lamps to solar lamps.
Leveraging the Electricity Act of 2023, Governor Oyebanji’s administration has enacted the State Electricity Power Sector Law 2023. This legislation grants the state authority over electricity generation, transmission, and distribution within its territory.
With the success of this IPP project, Ekiti State invites more investors in the power sector. Meter vendors can capitalise on opportunities as the electricity law now permits independent meter supply to willing customers, with ongoing efforts for swift implementation.
The Government of Ekiti State continues to lead as a model sub-national government with a commitment to creating an attractive destination for work, living, and investment.
#BAOGovernance #Ekiti #Electricity #Power
