By KT Reporter
Electricity Regulatory Authority ERA and West Nile Rural Electrification Company-WENRECo have revealed plans to intensify public awareness in the region, as consumers are ready for mass power consumption from the national grid.
In August, the West Nile region got connected to the national grid from Karuma Hydro power station, with sub-stations built in Nebbi and Arua to enhance its usage after more than 15 years of erratic power supply by WENRECo from Nyagak and Electromax Thermal power. This, coupled with high power tariffs, limited and high cost of connectivity and poor public relations over the years, has hurt the development of West Nile, which also led to protests and petitions to the Parliament.
During a meeting with WENREco staff, some private Electricians and Media on Thursday at Tropical Suites Hotel in Arua City, the power regulator and WENRECo agreed to undertake more engagements with the public and strengthen business ties.
Daniel Olinga, the Manager ERA for Northern Uganda based in Gulu, said there is an existing information gap on Licensing, approval of tariffs and charges, setting of sector standards and consumer protection that needs to be bridged through intensive awareness creation.
Olinga added that the public should support and work with WENRECo since its license is still valid up to March 2028.
Meanwhile WENRECo, a private power company in the region is currently faced with challenges of poor reputation among consumers, arising from delayed connection and response to customers, while on the side of the public, the company is battling with wild fires which destroys poles, deliberate cutting of trees which fall on the electric poles and some elements of vandalism.
Lillian Ayot, the Public Relations Officer of WENRECo, appeals to the public to seek information, adding that the company will soon embark on community outreaches to create more awareness on electricity in the region.
Despite connectivity to the national grid and satellite presence of ERA in West Nile, some members of the public still believe the region is been exploited with high power tariffs, low connectivity and a lack of political will to promote electricity usage among the citizenry-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
