Lagos targets power reliability in new energy roadmap

Lagos has listed electricity reliability, universal energy access, and local manufacturing of power infrastructure components as major target in its new energy roadmap.

Biodun Ogunleye, energy and mineral resources commissioner, who unveiled the plan, Tuesday, at a briefing to mark the second anniversary of the second tenure of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the forward-looking initiative also entails the full implementation of the Lagos electricity market structure under the Lagos State Electricity Law, 2024.

This will involve licensing independent electricity distribution companies, supporting embedded generation, and operationalising the Lagos Independent System Operator (LISO) to stabilise the power ecosystem.

“We are taking deliberate steps to transition Lagos into a 24-hour economy through reliable and sustainable energy solutions,” Ogunleye noted.

According to him, his ministry is also working to complete and energise eight interconnected mini-grids in underserved communities, with plans to scale up such interventions across rural and riverine areas.

“The Lagos Integrated Resource Plan, currently under development, will guide long-term energy planning and infrastructure investment.”

He said plans were being concluded to partner with local and international investors for the local manufacturing of power assets such as transformers, meters, cables, and switchgears.

The commissioner said this would strengthen the energy value chain, create jobs, and boost industrial capacity while also reducing import dependency on the part of the state government.

“Lagos is further set to activate the Lagos State Electrification Agency (LSEA) and deepen its collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency under the DARES programme, ensuring no community is left behind in the energy transition.

“When all these plans materialise, Lagos would have successfully positioned itself as a model for sub-national energy transformation in Africa, leveraging policy, technology, and partnerships to power prosperity”, he added.