Anambra Opens Power Sector to Competition as New Regulatory Framework Takes Effect

The Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ASERC) has launched a new regulatory framework designed to improve power supply, attract investment and encourage competition in the state’s electricity sector.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Awka, ASERC Chairman, Professor Frank Okafor, said the newly signed instruments provide the legal and operational foundation for a more efficient and consumer-focused electricity market.

The regulations cover business operations, customer protection, investment procedures and utility investment policies, while setting operational standards for the state-owned First Power Distribution Company and other potential market participants.

The initiative follows the enactment of the Anambra State Power Regulatory Law by Governor Chukwuma Soludo earlier this year, which paved the way for the creation of ASERC.

According to Okafor, the regulations were developed to clearly define the rights and obligations of consumers, service providers and investors within the state’s evolving electricity market.

“The objective is for people to know their rights in the power sector. The business rules stipulate the guidelines which must be obeyed by stakeholders, while the customer protection regulation defines the rights of customers and service providers and provides guidelines for licensing participants in the sector,” he stated.

He explained that the commission’s investment regulations provide a roadmap for prospective investors, while the utility investment policy outlines long-term incentives and opportunities within the sector.

Okafor added that the commission would focus on maintaining standards, protecting consumers from exploitation and creating a stable regulatory environment capable of attracting investment.

He noted that extensive stakeholder consultations were conducted in Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi and Ekwulobia before the regulations were finalised.

The ASERC chairman emphasized that the new framework would dismantle monopoly structures and create room for multiple electricity providers.

“There will not be any monopoly in the sector. Other investors are encouraged to come in and compete. The idea is to provide alternatives so that consumers can choose who they buy electricity from,” he said.

Commissioner for Information and Value Orientation, Dr. Law Mefor, described electricity as central to the state government’s vision for economic transformation.

He noted that strategic projects, including the proposed airport city, industrial park and Awka City Park, depend heavily on reliable energy infrastructure.

“If there should be a more meaningful life, it is about electricity. If we must transform our state into a smart city as envisioned by Governor Soludo, there must be adequate electricity supply,” Mefor said.

He added that dependable electricity remains a key requirement for industrialisation and investment attraction in Anambra State.

Also speaking, Commissioner for Power and Utilities, Mr. Casmir Agummadu, said the regulatory instruments represent a major milestone in the state’s drive toward sustainable and reliable electricity supply.

“We look forward to working with the commission to ensure that we meet the aspirations of the people of Anambra and lead the state to industrial growth,” he said.

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