Power Shift: Lagos unveils bold plan to light up every home, build energy locally

The Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has unveiled an ambitious roadmap aimed at achieving universal electricity access, enhancing grid reliability, and fostering the domestic production of energy infrastructure.

The vision was laid out by the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Biodun Ogunleye, during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held as part of activities marking Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s sixth year in office.

At the heart of the Ministry’s strategy is the full-scale implementation of the Lagos Electricity Market, anchored on the Lagos State Electricity Law, 2024. This new framework will enable the licensing of independent electricity distribution companies, promote embedded generation, and facilitate the operation of the Lagos Independent System Operator (LISO) to ensure system stability and improved service delivery.

“We are taking deliberate steps to transform Lagos into a 24-hour economy powered by reliable and sustainable energy solutions,” Ogunleye said.

As part of its near-term interventions, the commissioner said the ministry is set to complete and activate eight interconnected mini-grids in underserved communities, with plans to replicate the model in rural and riverine areas.

He stated that the Lagos Integrated Resource Plan, currently being developed, will serve as a blueprint for long-term energy planning and infrastructure development.

Ogunleye also revealed that the state is finalising partnerships with both local and international investors to establish manufacturing hubs for critical power components such as transformers, meters, cables, and switchgears.

“This effort will not only reinforce our energy value chain but also generate employment, boost industrial capacity, and significantly reduce our dependence on imports,” he noted.

Additionally, he explained that the state is preparing to operationalise the Lagos State Electrification Agency (LSEA) and expand collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency through the Distributed Access to Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) programme, ensuring inclusive energy access across all communities.

“When fully realised, these initiatives will position Lagos as a sub-national leader in energy transformation across Africa—driven by forward-thinking policies, cutting-edge technology, and strategic partnerships,” Ogunleye stated.