The University of Benin (UNIBEN) and Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) have amicably resolved their electricity tariff dispute, which had previously led to the disconnection of power to the institution.
The settlement was achieved out-of-court, setting the stage for a hybrid energy system aimed at addressing the high costs of electricity.
The dispute, which saw UNIBEN disconnected from the power grid last month, revolved around exorbitant electricity tariffs. In response, the University Management has initiated a private partnership deal to install a hybrid energy system, incorporating solar power. This initiative is designed to mitigate the impact of the high tariff rates imposed by BEDC.
Under the new agreement, UNIBEN’s monthly electricity bill has been adjusted to N100 million for continuous 24-hour supply, a significant reduction from the previous N300 million debt. The medium-term framework outlines a cost of N50 million for eight hours of electricity per month, in addition to a monthly payment of N50 million towards settling the outstanding arrears.
The resolution was reached during a stakeholders meeting chaired by Prof. Lilian Salami, Vice-Chancellor of UNIBEN, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, Prof. Raymond Ozolua, at the Ugbowo Campus. Attendees included student unions, ASUU, SSANU, NAAT, and other key groups who engaged in extensive discussions.
Prof. Salami emphasized that the alternative power arrangement was crucial to preventing student unrest, which had previously resulted in the indefinite closure of the university due to power rationing. She highlighted the poor compliance of students in paying school charges, which does not align with the institution’s expenditure, and called for collective stakeholder efforts to navigate the financial challenges.
“We were in court, but settled out of court. Electricity has been restored, but we will pay N100 million every month to BEDC, which includes N50 million as part of the wage to offset the N300 million debt owed to BEDC,” Prof. Salami explained. “We believe managing ourselves through group sharing of N50 million on a monthly consumption basis, totaling N100 million per month, is necessary despite being a significant amount for the university.”
Prof. Sam Ike, Chairman of the Task Force on Electricity Management and Energy Efficiency, detailed an eight-hour power rationing formula for faculties and residence halls under the medium-term plan. He also outlined strict penalties for electricity theft, including rustication for students caught using hot plates on campus.
The meeting also addressed the communication gap between the management and students, urging students to pay their outstanding school charges to ensure the institution’s optimal functioning. Stakeholders advocated for the continuation of such meetings to prevent future protests and maintain peace within the university community.
This hybrid solar initiative represents a forward-thinking approach by UNIBEN to secure a sustainable and cost-effective energy solution, ensuring uninterrupted power supply and stability for its academic environment.
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