Mainpower Electricity Distribution Limited Takes Over in Enugu as EEDC Steps Down

The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has officially exited its role in electricity distribution in Enugu State, as the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) licenses Mainpower Electricity Distribution Limited as its replacement. This transition comes after the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) completed the transfer of regulatory oversight to the EERC.

During a ceremony held in Enugu to mark the transfer, EERC Chairperson Chijioke Okonkwo emphasized the importance of this change, stating, “This marks the beginning of the development of sub-national electricity markets not only in Nigeria or West Africa but across the African continent.” He highlighted the EERC’s commitment to enhancing the electricity sector in Enugu State, reinforcing the belief that this transfer is not merely administrative but a step toward creating a more efficient and innovative electricity market.

At the event, Okonkwo announced that Mainpower has been granted an interim distribution license to manage the distribution of electricity in the state. Mainpower is a subsidiary of EEDC, which has previously overseen power distribution in southeastern Nigeria. Okonkwo urged the new company to uphold the standards set by EEDC and collaborate closely with the EERC to improve electricity services.

Kester Enwereonu, an official from Mainpower Electricity Distribution Limited, reassured residents of Enugu State about an enhanced electricity experience. “We are not just identifying with EERC as the pacesetter; Mainpower will also aspire to lead,” he stated. “With the newly tailored regulatory structure, we are committed to providing improved services in the coming weeks, months, and years.”

The event also saw the licensing of Fedikore Limited to construct a 10-megawatt power plant in the state. Chukwueloka Umeh, the CEO of Fedikore, described this development as revolutionary, expressing excitement about the partnership with the EERC. He remarked, “We believe that with the support of EERC and our collaboration with Mainpower, we can initiate the industrial revolution that has been anticipated for many years.”

The transition signifies the end of EEDC’s operations in Enugu State, although the company will continue to provide electricity distribution in Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Imo states.

This shift in the electricity distribution landscape follows a series of constitutional amendments passed by the National Assembly in 2023, allowing states to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity. The Enugu State Government subsequently enacted the Enugu State Electricity Law, 2023, establishing the EERC to regulate the state’s electricity sector. In June 2024, President Bola Tinubu signed the electricity bill into law, further empowering states, companies, and individuals in the energy sector.

The NERC initiated the handover process of regulatory powers to the EERC in April, culminating in this significant transition completed on Tuesday.