The Enugu State Government has clarified its stance on recent reports regarding the collection of an industrial gas emission levy by consultants engaged by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.
Contrary to circulating claims, the government has confirmed that it has not introduced any fines on renewable energy sources like solar power.
According to a public notice issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, and made available to journalists yesterday, the state government suspended the levy collection exercise on August 29, 2024.
Furthermore, the contract with the consultants involved was immediately terminated.
The state governor, Mr Peter Mbah, also directed that any levies collected in this manner be refunded, emphasizing that the consultants had overstepped their mandate.
While the government acknowledged that the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change had acted within its authority under the Enugu State Environmental and Climate Protection Law, 2024—specifically citing Section 4 (2) and Section 124, which pertain to enforcing environmental laws and penalties for “obnoxious gaseous emissions into the environment”—it clarified that the implementation of such levies was premature.
The necessary groundwork and infrastructure for enforcement were not yet in place.
“Recent reports highlighted the collection of levies on alternative energy sources by consultants engaged by the Ministry,” the statement read.
“After reviewing the matter, the governor directed the immediate cessation of this levy collection process and terminated the consultancy effective August 29, 2024.”
The government also announced that it is currently working on developing a comprehensive climate policy.
This policy aims to create a balanced approach that promotes business and industrial activities while encouraging clean innovation and sustainable practices throughout the state.
