Uzodinma urged to prioritise hydropower to boost power supply in Imo

From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri

An energy advocate, Christopher Ononukwe, has called on the Imo State Government to prioritise the development of small hydropower (SHP) as a means to address the state’s persistent electricity challenges.

Speaking with newsmen in Owerri on Sunday, Ononukwe highlighted the untapped potential of the state’s abundant water resources, including the Njaba River, Oguta Lake, Imo River, Otamiri River, Nwaorie River, and the moribund Inyishi Dam. He noted that small hydropower offers a reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuel-dependent power generation and other renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

Ononukwe, who recently participated in a two-week seminar on small hydropower in China, emphasised the need for Imo State to leverage its natural resources to achieve energy security and drive economic growth.

The seminar, organised by the National Research Institute for Rural Electrification (Hangzhou Regional Center, Asia-Pacific) and sponsored by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, provided participants with theoretical and practical insights into China’s successful small hydropower sector.

“China is leading the world in small hydropower through strategic planning, research, innovation, and implementation. Imo State has similar potential, with numerous water bodies that can be harnessed to generate clean, renewable electricity. What we need is the political will and strategic action to make this a reality,” he stated.

Ononukwe urged the Imo State Government to take decisive steps to harness the potential of small hydropower. He called for the development of a robust legal and regulatory framework and strengthened policies and institutions like the Ministry of Water Resources.

“The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the Renewable Energy Master Plan (REMP) provide a solid foundation for renewable energy development,” he said. “Imo State can build on this by creating favourable policies, streamlining licensing processes, and providing incentives for private sector participation.”

“Small hydropower is not just a solution to Imo State’s energy challenges; it is a pathway to economic prosperity, social harmony, and environmental sustainability. By prioritising small hydropower, Governor Uzodinma can transform Imo State into a model of renewable energy adoption in Nigeria,” Ononukwe stated.