The Bayelsa Government has yet to determine the tariffs for using its 60-megawatt gas-powered electricity plant.
Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the Commissioner for Information, Orientation, and Strategy, made this known in an interview with reporters in Yenagoa on Thursday.
In April, Gov. Duoye Diri’s administration inaugurated the independent 60-megawatt gas-fired power plant.
Phased test-running of the plant has begun, providing reliable electricity to parts of Yenagoa City.
Koku-Obiyai explained that the government’s main focus is to ensure electricity reaches communities.
“We have not yet decided on the tariff structure for different user categories. That’s a technical area, and not everyone should interfere. Our priority now is to get electricity gradually transmitted to communities. Once that is achieved, we will work out the tariffs,” he said.
Meanwhile, some Yenagoa residents have criticized what they call an aggressive revenue drive by the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) since the city’s power supply resumed.
Ebitimi Noah, a resident of Opolo, expressed concern that the company was demanding payment for bills even when customers had not been metered.
“We understand they are serving as the DISCO for the project, but the right thing should be done. The plant is still on test run; it’s too early to start harassing customers. Without PHEDC, we wouldn’t have electricity,” he said.
He called for metering of electricity users to ensure residents only pay for what they consume.
Another resident, Ilayefaa Ajoko, alleged that residents have faced extortion for years.
“That’s why people are resisting this move. We need metering; that will settle the issue,” he said.
