…targets 24/7 power, private sector investment, rural electrification
Delta State has launched a groundbreaking initiative that could redefine its electricity landscape, adopting a decentralized mini-grid model and approving the creation of key regulatory institutions to establish an independent, investor-driven power market.
Announcing the development during a post-Executive Council (EXCO) media briefing in Asaba on Tuesday July 22, 2925, the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, said the bold reforms reflect Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, with a focus on infrastructure transformation, economic empowerment, and enhanced service delivery across the state.
“This marks the beginning of a new era in electricity generation, distribution, and regulation in Delta State,” Ekedayen declared.
“With the legislative backing from the domestication of the 2023 Federal Electricity Act, we now have the legal foundation to chart our own path.”
Mini-Grid Model: End of the One-Failure-Darkness Era
At the core of this new strategy is the adoption of a mini-grid electricity model, a paradigm shift from the conventional national grid.
Under this approach, multiple independent operators will be licensed to generate, distribute, and supply electricity within defined zones across the state.
“This means power outages in one zone won’t plunge the entire state into darkness,” Ekedayen explained.
“Each operator manages a self-contained system, ensuring localized resilience, efficiency, and innovation in power delivery.”
The model also opens the door for customized energy solutions, enabling operators to harness the most viable sources for their zones, including solar, hydro, or conventional gas-powered systems.
Private Sector-Driven, Government-Regulated
Ekedayen emphasized that the reform is entirely private-sector driven, with the government acting strictly as a regulator and enabler.
“Our role is not to run power plants but to create a level playing field, enforce regulations, and build investor confidence. We’re setting the rules for a new, reliable electricity ecosystem,” he stated.
Three New Institutions to Anchor the Reform
To support this historic transition, the EXCO approved the establishment of three key regulatory bodies:
Delta State Electricity Commission, to serve as the chief regulatory authority, responsible for licensing, compliance monitoring, and dispute resolution between operators and consumers.
Rural Electricity Agency, tasked with ensuring electricity access in underserved and off-grid rural communities, thereby promoting inclusivity in energy distribution.
System and Market Operators, technical and commercial watchdogs respectively, responsible for overseeing generation and distribution logistics, enforcing service standards, and tracking electricity supply metrics.
A dedicated consultant will also be appointed to guide the process, develop a robust implementation roadmap, and ensure global best practices.
Delta Aims to Set the Pace for Subnational Power Reform
While acknowledging the complexity of electricity reform at the sub-national level, Ekedayen expressed pride in Delta’s pioneering role.
“Only a handful of states have ventured into electricity market reform. But Delta is moving deliberately, strategically, and boldly,” he said.
“Our ultimate goal is not just to provide electricity, but to build a system that works, supports industry, creates jobs, and improves the lives of our people.”
The Commissioner described the EXCO approvals as the formal birth of the Delta State Electricity Market, expressing confidence that the private sector, especially manufacturers and investors, would embrace the initiative enthusiastically.
“With this, Delta State is positioning itself as a national model for subnational electricity transformation,” he concluded.
The state’s move comes at a time when Nigeria’s central electricity grid continues to experience chronic failures, making Delta’s localized, resilient, and investor-focused electricity model a potential game-changer for sustainable development and economic revitalization.
