State Govt launches Mass Metering Program to end estimated electricity bills
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has inaugurated a mass metering program, dubbed “O’Datiwa Meters,” aimed at eliminating arbitrary and inflated electricity bills in Ondo State.
This initiative is in line with his promise to reform the power sector and ease the burden of accessing electricity for the state’s residents.
At the launch event in Akure, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the significance of accurate metering in ensuring a transparent, fair, and efficient electricity supply system. He noted that this program marks a crucial step in providing every citizen with a reliable and equitable electricity billing system.
By subsidizing meters, the government aims to address energy theft and inefficient billing practices, ensuring residents pay only for the energy they consume. This initiative promises to ensure that residents’ hard-earned money is spent justly, and they receive the energy they pay for without hindrance.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also highlighted a recent milestone in the state’s regulatory powers, with the transfer of electricity oversight from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to the State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (SERB). This transfer will enable the state to manage its electricity sector more effectively, tailoring policies to the specific needs of its people.
The governor announced that Ondo State is preparing for an ambitious venture into power generation, transmission, and distribution, and called on distribution and generation companies to collaborate with the state in achieving its goals.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy, Engr. Johnson Alabi, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his vision in transforming the energy sector. Alabi noted that the launch marks a significant milestone in the state’s history, ensuring consumer protection and promoting fairness and transparency in the energy sector.
Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Rasaq Obe, and Managing Director of BEDC, Deolu Ijose, also praised the initiative, acknowledging its importance in addressing frustrations over inflated bills and promoting accurate energy usage.
The Chairman of the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Transition Committee, Engr. Tunji Light-Ariyomo, noted that Ondo has become the first state to operationalize the power sector law in Nigeria, with Governor Aiyedatiwa being the first Nigerian governor to make meters available to residents.
Beneficiaries of the program, such as Mr. Olukayode Babatunde, expressed appreciation for the initiative, which they believe will enhance the standard of living and promote business growth in the state.