By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
The Management of Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) PLC has expressed concern over the sharp decline in power generation from the national grid, saying the development is negatively affecting the company’s operations, customers’ satisfaction and revenue collection.
Recall that the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) reports that power generation has been struggling, with output dropping to as low as 2,898 megawatts (MW) due to gas supply constraints affecting thermal power plants.
As a result, DisCos are forced to implement load shedding, leading to frequent power outages across the country.
Reacting to the situation during a discussion with journalists, the Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Ogunleye Akinleye, disclosed that the drop in national grid generation to approximately 3,940 megawatts has significantly impacted electricity distribution across the country, including BEDC franchise areas.
The BEDC franchise areas include Edo, Delta, Ondo and Ekiti states.
Mr. Ogunleye explained that the situation has directly affected the company’s cash collection, noting that without adequate power supply to customers, their payment appetite declines, which negatively impacts post-paid collections. Similarly, low energy has reduced vending for prepaid customers, leading to poor revenue collection for the company.
According to him, poor revenue collection has prevented the company from meeting its market obligations, thereby restricting access to full OPEX.
The BEDC boss regretted that the persistent drop in power generation has created significant challenges for the sector and therefore appealed to customers across BEDC’s franchise states of Edo, Delta, Ondo, and Ekiti to remain patient and continue supporting the company.
He reassured customers that the Federal Government and all relevant stakeholders in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry are working tirelessly to address the challenges affecting power generation and distribution in the country.