Bayelsa 24-Hour Power Promise Won’t Be Free, Says Diri, Outlines Rollout Plan

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri has cautioned residents that the much-anticipated 24-hour electricity supply from the state-owned Independent Power Plant will not be provided free of charge. Speaking during an inspection of the Elebele power project site in Ogbia Local Government Area, where six of the eight newly acquired 60-megawatt gas turbines have already been delivered, Diri explained that although the state is endowed with natural gas, the cost of procuring, transporting, and maintaining the turbines cannot be borne by government alone. He emphasized that the electricity supply would operate strictly on a pay-as-you-consume basis, with households and businesses required to pay through metering. The governor revealed that his administration had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Jampur Group to establish a local metering plant to ensure accurate billing and accountability. He noted that while the state government remains committed to providing uninterrupted power, sustainable supply requires shared responsibility from consumers. Diri also defended the decision to acquire multiple smaller turbines instead of a single large plant, saying it reduces the risk of total shutdown in the event of failure. He assured that work on installation, civil structures, and distribution arrangements is progressing, with full operation targeted to commence before Christmas. The arrival of the turbines has generated excitement in Yenagoa and surrounding communities, with many residents welcoming the project as a potential end to years of erratic electricity. However, some citizens and stakeholders have expressed concern about affordability once billing begins, urging the government to adopt transparent tariff structures and safeguard vulnerable households. The governor maintained that reliable power supply will transform Bayelsa’s economy by attracting investment, creating jobs, and reducing dependence on private generators. He called for patience as final installations are completed and assured that details of tariffs and rollout plans will be communicated to the public ahead of full implementation.