In a landmark move, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has authorized the Imo State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ISERC) to take regulatory control of the electricity market within Imo State, starting from July 1, 2024.

This decision follows the provisions outlined in the Electricity Act 2023, which permits states to assume ownership and regulatory authority over their local electricity markets.

NERC Chairman Sanusi Garba issued the order in response to a formal request from the Imo State government. Consequently, the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) must create a subsidiary, EEDC SubCo, to oversee intrastate electricity distribution in Imo State. This subsidiary must be incorporated within 60 days and obtain a license from ISERC.

Imo State now joins Enugu, Ondo, and Ekiti as the fourth state to secure regulatory authority over its electricity market.