The Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KSERC) has officially taken over the regulatory oversight function of the electricity market in Kogi State. This significant milestone marks a new era in the state’s energy sector, with KSERC assuming responsibility for regulating the electricity market.
The transfer of regulatory oversight was formalized at a ceremony held in Abuja, where the Chairman/CEO of KSERC, Engr. Ibrahim S Abdwaaris received the handover from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). The Chairman of NERC, Engr. Sanusi Garba assured KSERC of NERC’s continued support and collaboration.
According to Engr. Garba, NERC will provide KSERC with all necessary documents and data required for seamless operations. He emphasized the importance of a smooth transition, stating that “we want a smooth transition” and “we will continue to do partnership with you for the good of the industry”.
Engr. Abdwaaris expressed his gratitude to NERC for the opportunity, highlighting that KSERC has received the necessary training to “hit the ground running” and take off with ease. He assured that KSERC will continue to collaborate with NERC as it commences its regulatory oversight of the electricity market in Kogi State.
The transfer of regulatory oversight is expected to enhance the regulatory framework for the electricity market in Kogi State, facilitating the state’s efforts to become energy-sufficient. This development is in line with the amended Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electricity Act 2023 (Amended).
Under the Electricity Act 2023, NERC retains its role as the central regulator, overseeing inter-state and international electricity generation, transmission, supply, trading, and system operations. However, states are now empowered to establish and regulate their intrastate electricity markets.
The Government of Kogi State had complied with the conditions precedent in the laws, duly notifying NERC and requesting the transfer of regulatory oversight of the intrastate electricity market in Kogi State. This led to NERC issuing an order to transfer regulatory oversight to KSERC.
As part of the transfer, NERC has instructed the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) to establish a subsidiary (AEDC SubCo) that will take over responsibilities for the intrastate supply and distribution of electricity in Kogi State from AEDC.
The transfer of regulatory oversight is a significant step towards enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the electricity market in Kogi State. With KSERC now at the helm, the state is poised to make significant strides in its energy sector.
