… as work on Phase 2 (6MW) begins

Governor Makinde decries year-long delay in securing NERC clearance for Oyo IPP

Oredola Adeola

The Oyo State Government has commissioned the first phase of its 11 MW Independent Power Project (IPP), a private investment initiative by Elektron Energy, at the state secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan.

Governor Seyi Makinde commissioned the project on Friday.

Advisors Reports’ check showed that the hybrid power plant, comprising a 10 MW gas-fired generator and a 1 MW solar photovoltaic system, was developed at a cost of approximately N8.27 billion.

The first phase delivering 5 MW, now  completed, is expected to go live energized  immediately, while the second phase, adding 6 MW, will commence immediately.

The gas-fired component of the plant will be powered by gas from Shell’s ongoing gas pipeline project.

Governor Makinde highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “Oyo State currently receives an average of 80 MW from the national grid.

“Upon completion, this project will contribute an additional 14% to the state’s total electricity supply, reducing the energy deficit significantly.”

He also expressed concerns about delays caused by regulatory bottlenecks, revealing that it took a year after the groundbreaking in December 2021 to secure clearance from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

However, he noted that the recent constitutional amendment enabling states to generate, distribute, and transmit electricity would allow future decisions to be made by the newly established Oyo State Electricity Regulatory Commission.

The Governor therefore called on investors to explore opportunities in Oyo State’s energy sector, assuring them of a ready market.

Advisors Reports further gathered that the IPP will serve as the primary power source for the state’s Light Up Oyo project, a tribrid power system aimed at improving energy access across the state.

In addition, the project will meet the energy needs of key infrastructural facilities, including:

• The Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba
• Twelve healthcare facilities, including Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital and the State Hospital at Ring Road
• Judicial complexes at Iyaganku and Ring Road
• The Oyo State Secretariat and the House of Assembly
• Selected schools within the plant’s catchment area

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing energy challenges in the state and ensuring sustainable development through strategic investments like the IPP.