The National Electricity Regulatory Commission has formally ceased regulatory oversight of the electricity market in Abia State, with the Abia State Electricity Regulation Authority assuming control.
The state government, through the new regulatory body, on Friday issued interim power distribution and generation licences to three electricity companies operating within the state.
Chairman of the authority, Emeka Onyegbule, stated during the presentation that the government has begun enforcing measures to protect consumers from unfair practices and ensure effective dispute resolution. He urged the licensed companies to operate transparently and adhere strictly to regulatory guidelines or face sanctions.
Also speaking, the Executive Director for Legal and Regulation at the authority, Iguwo Ukwu, emphasized that billing, metering and customer engagement must be fair, verifiable and in line with the approved regulatory framework.
“You must demonstrate consumer protection and responsiveness,” Ukwu said.
The State Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Ikechukwu Monday, represented by the Special Adviser to Governor Alex Otti on Energy, Kachu Etolue, charged the companies to provide reliable electricity and sustain public confidence in the sector.
The companies granted licences are New Era Electricity Distribution, APL Electricity, and Geometric Power Aba.
