In a recent opinion piece, Enugu PDP member Ugwuagbo Emmanuel Chizoba has voiced strong objections to Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah’s new regulations on alternative energy sources. Chizoba argues that the regulations, which include heavy fines for using generators and other alternative energy methods, could be detrimental to both the economy and the state’s growth prospects.
Enugu and Imo Governments Penalize Residents for Using Solar Energy and Generators.
Chizoba, a supporter of the state government’s Disruptive Innovation Agenda, expressed disappointment over what he perceives as a lack of innovation in the approach. He suggests that the new policy may amount to economic self-sabotage, given Enugu State’s ongoing power supply challenges.
According to Chizoba, while the state government’s intention might be to regulate and incentivize better energy use, the reality is that many areas within Enugu are still struggling with inconsistent power supply. The government’s own offices, including the Government House, continue to rely on diesel and solar power due to the inadequacies of the current power grid.
The opinion piece highlights that the state has potential advantages, such as access to coal resources, which could be leveraged to improve power supply and drive economic growth. Instead of penalizing residents and businesses for using alternative energy, Chizoba advocates for a focus on developing the state’s energy infrastructure to provide reliable 24/7 electricity.
Chizoba’s critique comes in the wake of a recent law signed by former President Muhammadu Buhari that grants state governments the authority to manage their own electricity generation and distribution. This, he argues, presents an opportunity for Enugu to become a major player in energy production, but this potential is being undermined by the new regulations.
In conclusion, Chizoba urges Governor Mbah and the state’s Commissioner for Environmental and Climate, Mr. Sam Ugwu, to reconsider their stance. He suggests that instead of imposing fines and restrictions, the government should focus on addressing the energy shortfall and creating a more favorable environment for both investment and sustainable development.
“Taxing and penalizing individuals for using alternative sources of energy in the face of poor power supply is counterproductive,” Chizoba states. “It is essential for the government to fulfill its duty to provide reliable electricity before imposing additional burdens on the people.”
