By Joseph Momoh, Daily Scope
In a significant development, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament convened on Tuesday to address escalating tensions between the Energy Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC) and the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA). Central to the discussion was EGTC’s assertion that EDSA owes the company a staggering NLe 589 million for electricity supplied over the years.
EGTC representatives highlighted concerns over EDSA’s management of revenue generated from electricity sales, alleging that this arrangement has severely limited EGTC’s financial autonomy. Currently, all funds from electricity sales are funneled into a central account controlled by EDSA, which is responsible for settling supplier payments, covering salaries, and managing operational expenses on behalf of EGTC. This setup has hindered EGTC’s ability to maintain its own financial records and has raised questions about accountability.
Under previous operational structures, EGTC received direct payments for the power it generated, enabling it to fulfill its financial obligations to suppliers. However, the current model has reportedly diminished the company’s operational independence and exacerbated its debt situation.
In light of these challenges, EGTC has sought the support of the Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (EWRC) to establish a new “No Power Purchase Agreement.” This proposed agreement aims to grant EGTC direct payment for its generated power, thus enabling the company to regain control over its financial operations.
During the PAC session, EGTC officials appealed for the committee’s backing in securing this new arrangement. “Our goal is to establish a framework that restores EGTC’s independence,” stated one representative.
In response to the unfolding situation, Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma advised the committee to refrain from making hasty decisions. He suggested that both EGTC and EDSA be invited to a joint session to provide clarity on their respective positions. The Deputy Chairman of PAC, who presided over the meeting, confirmed that EDSA will be summoned to address the allegations, with a hearing date to be announced.
This dispute highlights the broader challenges facing Sierra Leone’s energy sector, particularly regarding accountability, financial management, and the urgent need for structural reforms to ensure a reliable and sustainable electricity supply.
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