AKURE — Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has assented to the Ondo State Electric Power Sector (Amendment) Law, 2026, strengthening the legal and institutional framework for electricity generation, transmission and distribution across the state.
The amended legislation, passed by the Ondo State House of Assembly, updates the state’s 2020 electricity law and brings its provisions in line with the Electricity Act, 2023.
A key provision of the new law is the establishment of the State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC) as an independent regulatory body responsible for overseeing electricity-related activities within the state.
Under the law, SERC will regulate electricity tariffs, open access, franchises, third-party investments, mini-grid operations and renewable energy development. It will also be responsible for issuing licences and permits for electricity generation, transmission and distribution facilities.
The legislation further provides for the establishment of the State Independent System Operator (SISO) and the State Market Operator (SMO) to facilitate effective coordination and operation of the state’s electricity market.
Compulsory metering
The amended law makes the provision of electricity meters compulsory for both grid-connected and off-grid consumers.
It requires electricity providers to supply meters to consumers and establishes direct billing relationships between electricity sellers and their customers.
The law also provides protection for electricity infrastructure financed by communities, associations and private individuals, with the aim of safeguarding investments made to improve electricity supply.
Agency to certify electrical equipment
The legislation establishes the Equipment Standards and Competence Certification Agency (ESCCA) to oversee the inspection, testing and certification of electrical equipment used in the state.
The agency will also be responsible for licensing electrical installers, technicians and contractors operating within Ondo State.
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Power Company has been strengthened as the commercial arm of the state government in the electricity sector.
Under the amended law, the company is empowered to invest in electricity generation, transmission and distribution, as well as mini-grid projects, renewable energy and small hydro-power developments.
The law also empowers the state government to grant exclusivity rights to investors in certain electricity projects. Electricity investments made by the government, communities and private individuals are designated as “State Protected Investments” under the legislation.
Speaking after the governor signed the law, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Johnson Jaiyeola Alabi, described the legislation as a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to establish a modern, sustainable and investment-driven electricity sector.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, in reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the sector, said reliable electricity supply would serve as a major catalyst for industrialisation, economic expansion and improved quality of life for residents of Ondo State.
The amended law is expected to provide a clearer regulatory framework for electricity investments while encouraging greater participation by private investors, communities and other stakeholders in the state’s power sector.
