Delta’s Power Shift: A New Era Of Energy-Driven Industrialisation

By Dr. Benson Uwheru, FCIB
Energy Governance Executive | Risk & Infrastructure Strategist |

Delta State took a bold and transformational step on Thursday as Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori assented to the landmark Delta State Electricity Power Sector Bill, 2024. Described aptly by the Governor as a “game changer,” this legislative act signals the dawn of a new era in subnational energy autonomy, private sector investment, and industrial productivity.

It is more than a bill – it is a declaration of intent that Delta State is ready to lead the charge in Nigeria’s post-constitutional power sector reform.

AALSO READ: Sanwo-Olu Gifts LASU Best Graduating Student, Isioma Nwosu, N10M

⚖️ Context: Why This Law Matters Now

Following the 2023 Electricity Act, which decentralised electricity regulation and empowered states to license and manage power markets within their jurisdictions, Delta State’s swift legislative response shows visionary governance in action.

With this law, Delta can now:
• Establish its own Electricity Regulatory Commission
• License generation, transmission, and distribution companies
• Attract IPP investments for grid and off-grid solutions
• Develop policies tailored to Delta’s local energy realities

This move effectively positions Delta State as one of Nigeria’s pioneers in leveraging decentralised electricity regulation to catalyse socio-economic growth.

🔌 What This Means for Delta State: Practical Opportunities

1. Industrial Clusters with Dedicated Power

Delta’s agro-industrial parks, oil and gas servicing zones, and manufacturing estates can now be powered through embedded generation and distribution models, reducing reliance on the national grid and eliminating power downtime.

Example: A rice mill cluster in Ughelli or a modular refinery hub in Warri can have their own IPP and captive power arrangements—licensed and regulated by the state.

2. Boosting SME Competitiveness

Reliable electricity is a cost-reduction and productivity multiplier for SMEs. With mini-grid and solar hybrid systems now easier to license and deploy, traders, tailors, artisans, and small manufacturers in places like Sapele, Ozoro, and Agbor will enjoy lower power costs and longer productive hours.

3. Job Creation through Local Energy Ecosystems

This law opens doors for local content development: energy technicians, solar installers, meter manufacturers, and regulatory professionals will find new career pathways within the Delta State power market.

4. Delta as an Energy Investment Destination

With a clear legal and regulatory framework, Delta can attract:
• IPP developers looking for state-level partnerships
• DFIs interested in rural electrification and renewable projects
• Green finance for ESG-compliant infrastructure

A proactive State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC) will be the anchor institution to build investor confidence.

🚧 Next Steps: Making the Law Work
1. Set Up the Delta State Electricity Regulatory Commission (DSERC):
• Recruit skilled, independent commissioners
• Define regulatory codes, licensing guidelines, and dispute resolution systems
2. Conduct Statewide Energy Audits and Load Mapping:
• Understand where demand exists (urban vs rural)
• Identify clusters for off-grid, on-grid, and hybrid power solutions
3. Update the Delta State Energy Masterplan (2024–2030):
• Align infrastructure with industrial development priorities
• Set renewable energy targets and investment thresholds
4. Develop a One-Stop-Shop for Power Investors:
• Fast-track licensing, permits, and land approvals
• Offer incentives (tax holidays, land access, FX repatriation support)
5. Launch Public Awareness and Community Engagement Campaigns:
• Sensitise host communities to private power investments
• Ensure local participation and social license to operate

🌍 Delta’s Competitive Advantage
• Natural Gas Riches: As a top gas-producing state, Delta can integrate gas-to-power projects into its industrialisation blueprint.
• Skilled Manpower: With universities, polytechnics, and technical institutes, Delta can drive a talent pipeline into the emerging power sector.
• Strategic Location: As a gateway to the South-South and major transmission corridors, Delta can become an energy export hub to other states and ECOWAS markets.

🔋 Conclusion: A Bold Path Forward

Governor Oborevwori’s assent to the Electricity Power Sector Bill is not just symbolic—it is strategic. It reflects a new kind of subnational leadership: bold, technical, reform-oriented, and pro-growth.

With the right execution, Delta State can become Nigeria’s leading example of energy-led industrial transformation, improving lives, creating jobs, and powering prosperity—one community at a time.

Dr. Benson Uwheru, FCIB
Energy Governance Advisor | Risk & Infrastructure Consultant | Former MD/CEO, PHED