The Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC) has formally issued Order No. LASERC ORDER/001/2025 establishing the regulatory framework for electricity market operations within Lagos State. This milestone Order marks the official conclusion of the transition period for the transfer of regulatory oversight from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission to LASERC, as stipulated in the Electricity Act 2023 and the Lagos State Electricity Law 2024.

The Order, which takes immediate effect, prohibits all individuals and entities from undertaking regulated electricity activities within Lagos State without a valid license or permit issued by LASERC. The Commission emphasized that holding a license from any other regulatory body will not exempt violators from liability under the new regulatory regime.

According to the Order:

All unlicensed operators must immediately cease regulated activities and apply for appropriate licensing from the Commission.

Violators face penalties including fines of not less than N20 million and an additional N20,000 for each day of continued non-compliance.

Entities uncertain about their regulatory status are encouraged to seek official clarification from the Commission.

The Order also affirms the continued applicability of existing national regulatory instruments — including tariff guidelines, grid codes, safety standards, and metering regulations — as binding on all electricity licensees operating within Lagos State, pending any amendment or further directive from the Commission.

“This Order reinforces LASERC’s mandate to ensure a safe, efficient, and reliable electricity market in Lagos,” said Dr. Fouad Animashaun, CEO/Executive Commissioner of LASERC. “We are committed to upholding global standards and protecting electricity user and investor interests in the evolving power sector.” (Daily Champion)