Lagos, Nigeria's bustling commercial capital, is taking a significant step towards resolving its persistent power issues by inviting bids for the construction of up to 4,000 megawatt (MW) gas-fired power plants.
This initiative aims to address the national grid's shortfall and end the frequent blackouts that have long plagued businesses and households.
Currently, Lagos requires approximately 6,000 MW of electricity but receives only about 2,000 MW from the national grid.
This discrepancy has led to widespread reliance on costly fuel generators.
As noted by the World Bank, "four in ten Nigerians do not have access to electricity," which remains a major obstacle to investment in Africa's most populous nation.
In response, the Lagos State government has launched the Clean Lagos Electricity Market plan, designating four hubs for the construction of these power stations. Each hub is expected to have a minimum generating capacity of 500 MW.
Companies selected for this project will need to arrange their own financing through power purchase agreements with the state.
This move aligns with recent policy changes under President Tinubu, allowing state governments to generate and distribute their own power, a shift from previous laws that centralized these rights at the federal level.
The initiative is seen as a strategic effort to enhance energy infrastructure, attract investments, and stimulate economic growth by providing a reliable power supply to support both industrial and residential needs.
Critics, however, remain skeptical. Some residents express doubts, recalling past promises that were never fulfilled. One commentator remarked, "We've been hearing these lies since 1960," reflecting a common sentiment of distrust towards government projects.
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