NAM Questions Energy Minister Over Debt Accumulation to Senelec –
By: Binta Jaiteh
The National Assembly Member for Banjul North, Modou Lamin Bah has questioned the Minister of Petroleum and Energy Nani Jawara over money owed owed to Senelec, asserting that individuals are paying for his or her pre-paid money energy for electrical energy.
Hon. Bah’s concern on the matter was raised throughout questions for oral reply with ministers on Wednesday. The Banjul North lawmaker additional demanded to know the quantity NAWEC owes each Senelec and Karpower.
In response, Minister Jawara informed lawmakers that, Gambia owes Karpower $8.4 million for invoices protecting June, July, August, and September whereas Senelec is owed $9.8 billion CFA which is equal to $16. 1 million, for a similar months of June, July, August, and September.
“The delay in payment is mainly attributed to cash flow challenges faced by NAWEC due to the non-cost reflective tariff which is compounded by the rising cost of foreign currency as both Karpower and Senelec require payment in foreign currencies that continue to appreciate against the Gambian dalasi from January to August 2024. The increase in power purchase cost from Senelec and Karpower are driven by fluctuations in foreign currency rate that amounted to almost D7,96 million,” he defined.
The lawmaker for the Jeshwang constituency Sheriff Sarr additional requested the minister whether or not there are any plans to pay the debt.
The Minister of Petroleum confirmed that NAWEC has entered right into a cost plan with each corporations to settle the debt.
Meanwhile, Lawmaker for Foni Kansala Almamay Gibba stated wanting on the whole quantity that’s already owed, he requested, whether or not the Ministry has plans to terminate contracts and look inwards to see learn how to take possession of its electrical energy.
Minister Juwara identified that there are not any speedy plans to terminate these contracts however that NAWEC has plans to extend the native producing capability by way of thermal vitality and renewables.
According to him, the main target is extra on renewable which is why they not too long ago launched a 50-megawatt photo voltaic plant that might be situated in Jarra Soma. “The evaluations are going on regarding the 50 megawatts and the construction period for such plans is about 12- 18 months depending on the fastness of the contract,” he concluded.
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