Electricity Without Accountability: Public Outrage Grows in Burao Electricity Debate

Burao, Somaliland – A growing dispute over electricity provision has emerged in the city of Burao following the entry of a new power company, Al Nuur Energy, which aims to challenge the long-standing monopoly held by HECO, the city’s primary electricity provider for years.

Al Nuur Energy, a full-service electricity company, has launched operations in Burao and is already receiving significant public support. Many residents have taken to social media to express their enthusiasm, describing the company’s entry as a much-needed step toward energy sector reform, increased competition, and improved services.

Speaking to media, several residents explained that their support for the new company stems from deep dissatisfaction with HECO’s past performance. They pointed to a range of issues they have experienced due to HECO’s monopoly, including:

    •    Frequent power cuts without prior warning, disrupting households and businesses alike.

    •    Unfair billing practices, such as fixed monthly charges even when customers have not used electricity.

    •    Refusal to take responsibility for electrical accidents, leaving victims with no compensation or recourse.

    •    High electricity costs, which have forced several small businesses to shut down and caused factories and industries to flee the region, increasing unemployment.

    •    A lack of corporate social responsibility, with HECO making no effort to invest in community well-being or development.

    •    In one disturbing incident, power to Burao General Hospital was reportedly cut off during surgical procedures, endangering patients’ lives and highlighting the consequences of unchecked corporate behavior.

Critics have also questioned the handling of donor-funded projects. Burao was among the cities selected to benefit from a World Bank–funded solar energy project. However, the entire implementation was handed to HECO, and electricity prices remained high, raising public outcry. “The solar power project was supposed to bring down costs, but instead we continue to pay exorbitant prices,” one resident told media.

Tensions escalated yesterday when HECO-affiliated workers allegedly vandalized Al Nuur Energy’s newly installed power lines. Al Nuur’s management accused HECO of sabotage, calling the incident a desperate attempt to maintain control of the market. No official response has yet been issued by the Somaliland government.

Despite both companies now operating in the city, the dispute remains unresolved. While most Burao residents see Al Nuur Energy as a welcome competitor.

Local voices continue to call for fair play. “We don’t want another monopoly. Electricity is a basic need, and the people of Burao deserve choices, accountability, and affordability,” said a resident.

This standoff in Burao highlights broader concerns about monopolies, the impact of corporate power on essential public services, and the urgent need for regulatory reform to ensure that citizens are not held hostage by a single private provider.