Rivers seeks partnership with PHED on steady power supply to residents

The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) says it is working to provide a steady power supply to all its franchise states.

The PHED is responsible for electricity distribution to Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River and Rivers states.

In a statement on Saturday, Olubukola Ilevbare, the company’s communications head, said Benson Uwheru, PHED’s managing director, said the organisation will introduce innovations and technology in power supply.

He said the adoption of modern innovations which is in line with the company’s strategic vision will improve service delivery to customers in the four states.

“So, to achieve this, we need improved partnership which is an enabler for sustainable relationships while prioritising the demands of customers,” Uwheru said. 

“In as much as it is important to improve relationships with our stakeholders, it is also vital that bills are promptly paid to enable PHED to serve customers better.”

He said the company has entered an agreement with Ibom Power, to replace worn-out infrastructure, control vegetation at facilities, protect equipment from vandals and ensure timely clearance of transit faults.

He expressed optimism that the company’s recent engagement with stakeholders in Akwa Ibom would improve supply to the state.

Ilevbare added that Uwheru met with Henry Ogiri, commissioner of power in Rivers, to discuss areas for improving reliable power supply in the state. 

“We are prepared to partner with the Rivers state government in the area of reliable power supply, considering the state consumes the highest electricity in our franchise area,” he said.

“PHED enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship with the previous government, and as such, we want to set up a state power sector working committee made up of members from the ministry.

“The committee will develop business models to address power supply, electricity architecture, preventive maintenance, supply priority areas and service concerns, leveraging on state-owned power assets,” he added.

The managing director said the committee would meet every month to review power supply and reliability challenges with the intent to proffer solutions.

He called on the state government to assist the company to tackle challenges, including entitlement mentality; refusal to pay electricity bills; vandalism of facilities and assault of staff on duty.

Ogiri, on his path, assured him of the state government’s willingness to partner with PHED to provide a steady electricity supply in the state.