The Lagos State Government says residents could begin to experience improved electricity supply within the next six to 12 months as it pursues an additional 2,000 megawatts of embedded power generation through partnerships with private investors.

Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, disclosed this during a ministerial press briefing marking the second year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.

According to Ogunleye, the state is already engaging various energy providers and investors to drive embedded power projects aimed at improving electricity supply across Lagos.

“Don’t be surprised if in the next few days we are announcing that some batteries are deployed and generating power for Lagos,” he said.

He explained that the state government was focused on creating an enabling environment for private sector participation in power generation and distribution rather than directly operating power plants.

“We are working with various providers with the target of ensuring embedded power generation within the Lagos environment.

“We cannot continue to depend entirely on the Federal Government. We must have a stable and productive Lagos.

“Without electricity, there will be zero development and our people’s opportunities will not be maximised,” he said.

The commissioner also revealed that the state was facilitating the right-of-way for a 132KV bulk power transmission line from Ajah through Eleko Junction to Alaro City to support industrial growth along the Lekki corridor.

He added that the infrastructure project would include a parallel gas pipeline to provide an integrated power and gas backbone for industries and residents.

Ogunleye further disclosed that the state had rehabilitated 37.7 kilometres of 132KV power lines across Badagry, Epe and other strategic corridors to improve network reliability and regional connectivity.

On solar energy installations, the commissioner clarified that the government had not introduced compulsory permits for residents installing solar systems.

According to him, the focus is on ensuring that installers are properly certified to prevent substandard installations that could lead to fire outbreaks and other safety hazards.

He linked several recent fire incidents in Lagos to faulty solar and air-conditioning installations.

Ogunleye also said implementation of the Lagos Independent System Operator was ongoing in collaboration with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to strengthen electricity market operations within the state.

“We are not sleeping on it. In the next few days, there will be further announcements showing that Lagos electricity market reforms are taking off,” he said.