Federal govt set to increase electricity tariffs, again

But I thought these same tariffs were just recently increased during the Jonathan government, when the DISCOs‘ deal was done. I’m trying to understand Fashola and the morale behind this new upward review, but, I’m struggling with it walaitalai. … The “embedded power” idea makes sense, but, I believe a plan to introduce the tariffs may just not be sensitive enough….

The Federal Government on Tuesday unveiled its blueprint on infrastructural development for Nigeria.

The Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, outlined the government’s plan for the country in the three sectors and noted that electricity tariffs, particularly in populous areas and industrial clusters would increase when the new rates are unveiled.

The PUNCH had exclusively reported that the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission had finalized its review on the tariffs and was awaiting input from the government before it would announce the new rates.

Fashola, at his maiden press conference at the headquarters of the former Ministry of Works in Abuja, stated that the government would prioritize the completion of ongoing power projects and would consider setting up embedded power generation stations at industrial sites located in commercial centers in various states.

He said, “We will want state governments to help us identify and enumerate the very populous, industrial and commercial clusters in their states where we can provide embedded power. This will make life easy for those who are involved in manufacturing, fabrication and other related activities.

“Perhaps the tariffs here, honestly, may be slightly higher than what is obtained, but the truth is that there will be a significant improvement on what we have and we will need the collaboration of Discos to achieve this.”

The minister also spoke extensively on the government’s plans for the works and housings sectors.

More to follow…

source:  THE PUNCH