Use technology to boost power sector performance, experts advise

A high degree of sophisticated automation and analytics is needed to manage a system powered by an increasing variety of energy sources.

These were the submissions of the General Manager, Lagos State Electricity Board (LSEB), Mukhtaar Tijani, at the maiden Management Staff Retreat themed ‘Delivering sustainable and effective energy towards ensuring service delivery in line with the THEMES Agenda’ and held in Lagos.

Tijani said the government needs to focus on building a workforce with the necessary technical expertise to deliver sustainable growth in the power sector.

According to him, achieving strategic goals in the energy ecosystem is a veritable way to upscale development priorities.

Tijani noted that the current administration has prioritised electrifying public and private spaces, which would be evident in the implementation of next year’s budget.

He stated that the sector was also looking into alternate power sources to diversify the energy mix and to help the fight against climate change.

He explained that the training is critical in improving human capital capacities. He noted that the board is looking to train staff locally and internationally which would equip staff and promote team building and bonding.

Last year the governor distributed 20,000 meters to citizens in the low cadre of the society, especially Alimosho to cushion the effect of the increase in tariffs.

The tariff is a result of an increase in gas prices, forex and other factors We are doing a lot to cushion this by the provision of some infrastructure to allow distribution companies to focus on delivering more stable power.

For the low supply of electricity, he said that differs from one situation to another. He however cited some causes as faulty lines, unavailable infrastructure.

He noted that the retreat provided the management staff tools for enhancing productivity to ensure job satisfaction in the public service adding that the staff would be availed of necessary skills and understanding of complex regulatory regime.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR), Olusola Shasore, said that the retreat provided staff an opportunity to dialogue on issues about their sector and get action points to better impact the state.

She added that the proffer was to ensure Lagos state is lighted up, on the streets and in the homes.