Delta State has urged the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) to end the estimated billing of electricity consumers by prioritising the distribution of prepaid meters across the state.
The call was made by the Commissioner for Energy, Sunday Tatabuzogwu, during a familiarisation visit by the Regional Head of BEDC, Asaba, Mr. Gboyega Agunlejiga, and his team to the Ministry of Energy on Thursday.
Tatabuzogwu stressed that estimated billing remains a major source of frustration for electricity consumers, especially small-scale businesses that struggle to plan and manage their energy expenses.
He insisted that the solution lies in the aggressive rollout of prepaid meters to all customers, not just those in Band A.
“The focus should not be solely on Band A. BEDC must extend metering to Bands B, C, and D, where most small-scale industries fall.
“This will ensure fairness, transparency, and help these businesses manage their electricity consumption and cost effectively,” Tatabuzogwu stated.
He noted that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration, under the MORE Agenda, continues to invest in the state’s electricity infrastructure and expects the BEDC to complement these efforts by ensuring that no consumer is left under the burden of estimated billing.
The commissioner also called for immediate connection of transformers supplied by the state government and private individuals, warning that unenergised transformers are often targets for vandalism.
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He emphasised that energising them promptly will protect public assets and boost power delivery.
Tatabuzogwu described Delta State as the emerging powerhouse of Nigeria’s electricity market, highlighting the growing interest of investors in the state.
He urged the BEDC to maintain close collaboration with the Ministry of Energy to avoid miscommunication and ensure the smooth execution of power-related projects.
Responding, Mr. Agunlejiga thanked the commissioner for his warm reception and pledged that the BEDC will work closely with the ministry to address the concerns raised.
He acknowledged that the company operates under the regulations of the Delta State Electricity Law and assured that steps will be taken to improve service delivery.
