The Benin Electricity Distribution Plc has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Thames Energy Limited and the Delta State Government on the construction of a 20 megawatts power plant in the area.
The BEDC said in a statement that the initiative was aimed at ensuring that over 200 commercial entities around Ozoro in Isoko Local Government Area of Delta State would benefit from power supply.
It said the MoU signing signalled a tripartite partnership that would galvanise several commercial entities, in addition to rejuvenating the economy of the Isoko, and making the location an economic hub for the state.
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, BEDC, Mrs. Funke Osibodu, was quoted as saying at the signing ceremony that the company was poised to make the project a reality with a view to improving the socio-economic development of the Isoko people and the state at large.
She said no urban renewal or development would be complete without power supply, adding that the company’s involvement in the deal was informed by the quest and commitment to improving the quality of life of customers through the provision of reliable and stable electricity supply with limited interruptions.
Also contributing, the Executive Director, Commercial, BEDC, Dr. Abu Ejoor, commended the people of Ozoro for creating a peaceful and friendly environment for the project to commence.
He said the project, when completed, would improve the lots of the people, create jobs, reduce poverty and create enterprises.
The Managing Director, Thames Energy Limited, Mr. Akpovi Oyo, said the power plant project would be completed within 18 months.
“It is an off-grid project where 20 megawatts of electricity would be installed in the first phase, while the second, third and fourth phase will come up based on demand.
“In a couple of weeks, a groundbreaking ceremony will be done for construction to kick off immediately,” Oyo said, adding that the state required five of such power plants in key areas.
The Delta State Commissioner for Urban Renewal, Mr. Ilolo Oghenekaro, was quoted as saying that the state was committed to the development of key infrastructure that would improve the economy.
He said, “You cannot renew any urban centre without critical infrastructure like power; hence, the basis for the Delta State Government’s partnership with the BEDC and Thames Energy on the project.
He stressed the need to key into the power sector in such a way that would help everybody, saying, “Delta State is willing to provide any form of assistance to make this project a success.”
He said when completed, the project would boost the economy, business activities and create employment, adding, “In short, it is a watershed.”
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