Lagos State Government has said it is committed to achieving 100 per cent metering as part of a broader strategy to enhance electricity access for residents and drive renewable energy adoption 
  
This is as energy experts and industry stakeholders called for the full implementation of Nigeria’s Electricity Law, saying the legislation has the potential to address persistent blackouts and create a sustainable energy market.
 
 Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye, who disclosed this at a policy dialogue on renewable energy in Abuja, yesterday, however, stressed the need for strong legal and financial frameworks to attract investment in the power sector.
  
The event, themed, “Strategies for Building a Strong and Effective Coalition in Support of Renewable Energy in Nigeria,” was co-hosted by Natural Justice, Just Energy Transition Africa, and the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria.
  
The commissioner, while presenting a keynote address on Lagos State Electricity Law, 2024 (LSEL) observed that the state was strategically deploying renewable energy across five key sectors.
  
He said a well-structured electricity market, backed by the new law, would drive investment in power generation, transmission and distribution, leading to improved service delivery.
  
Ogunleye said: “Lagos is putting a lot of resources into renewables, and a key one is the fact that we have five areas where we are deploying renewables. One is our streetlight infrastructure. The second is our tertiary institutions. The third is our basic educational institution. Then, we have our hospitals.
  
“Additionally, there are several critical needs for the state itself that we are also transitioning to renewable infrastructure. Over and above that, the state government is encouraging grid-connected renewable infrastructure to come online to help ensure grid stability and reduce electricity costs.
  
“However, the Lagos electricity market is working to ensure transparency in every part of the process. Value-for-money principles, balance clearing, and a high level of automation are being incorporated into achieving 100 per cent metering.”

That is something the governor has always emphasised and we must ensure it happens.” Country Manager of Natural Justice, Michael Keania Karikpo, expressed optimism that the discussions would lead to concrete steps toward Nigeria’s sustainable energy transition.
  
According to Karikpo, Nigeria stands at an energy crossroads, adding that with the right policies and institutional frameworks, the country could become a renewable energy powerhouse in West Africa.

MEANWHILE, the Federal Government, yesterday, said the country would aggressively pursue deployment of renewable as the Lambata community in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State got electrified by a 990kWp solar hybrid mini-grid.

The project, worth €9.3 million, is funded by the European Union (EU) and co-financed by the German government in collaboration with Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

Speaking at the commissioning, yesterday, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding renewable energy solutions to underserved communities.

“The project features 990kWp photovoltaic panels, a 900KW battery storage system, and an advanced energy management system to ensure a stable electricity supply. This is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution that reduces reliance on fossil fuels while promoting a greener future,” he said.