Lagos electricity regulator licenses 14 operators

The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission, has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening smart regulation and strengthening the Lagos electricity market.

This came as the commission issued licences to 14 operators in the state electricity value chain.

Speaking on Thursday at LASERC’s maiden Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum in Ikeja, the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Member of LASERC, Mrs Temitope George, described the forum as “a defining moment in the evolution of Lagos State’s electricity sector” and a demonstration of the commission’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and stakeholder inclusion.

She stated that the engagement marked the beginning of a new regulatory era focused on building “a functional, efficient, innovative, and consumer-centred electricity market” capable of supporting Lagos State’s economic ambitions.

George reiterated LASERC’s vision of becoming a leading electricity regulator by facilitating sustainable electricity development and improving the quality of life of residents.

She added that the commission remained committed to setting and enforcing standards, safeguarding consumers, enabling investments, supporting innovation, and promoting clean energy solutions across the state.

As part of efforts to strengthen consumer protection, George disclosed that LASERC was establishing zonal offices in the Ikorodu, Amuwo Odofin/Badagry, and Sangotedo/Epe axes to improve complaint resolution and enhance access to regulatory services. “The offices are expected to become operational in the third quarter of the year,” she said.

George stressed that sustainable progress within the electricity sector could only be achieved through strong partnerships, shared responsibility, and continuous stakeholder engagement.

She noted that ongoing reforms within the Lagos electricity ecosystem present opportunities for investment, infrastructure development, innovation and the adoption of modern and clean energy technologies.

A major highlight of the engagement was the presentation of the regulatory agenda, market performance highlights, retail service code, and orders by the CEO, George; the Executive Member, Licensing and Economic Regulation, Olakunle Falola; Executive Member, Engineering and Standards, Adekunle Olopade; and the Lagos Independent System Operator Network Operator, Adetunji Adesanya.

The presentations, according to LASERC, provided stakeholders with insights into the commission’s immediate, short-term, and long-term strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening the Lagos electricity market.

The board chairman, Alexander Ogunbiyi, also presented 14 licences and permits to compliant stakeholders and operators in recognition of their adherence to regulatory requirements and industry standards.

LASERC said the development reinforced its drive towards a “structured, accountable, and fully regulated electricity market in Lagos State”.

The event featured stakeholder contributions and interactive discussions on addressing industry challenges and pathways for sustainable sector growth.

Participants at the forum included development partners, market operators, investors, community representatives, artisans, consumer groups, and members of the media.(Punch)