Evaluating the Impact of Rising Electricity Tariffs on Government Hospitals in Anambra State Challenges, Cost Burdens, Strategic Solutions, and Policy Pathways for Affordable Energy

Reliable and affordable electricity is indispensable to effective healthcare delivery, yet Nigerian government hospitals are facing unprecedented financial strain following the 2024 Supplementary Multi Year Tariff Order MYTO . The reclassification of public hospitals under Band A raising tariffs from ~ 68 kWh to 217 kWh has triggered a more than 200 surge in energy costs across Anambra State's tertiary and secondary facilities. Using a mixed methods research design, this study integrates retrospective cost analysis, physical energy audits, and internet verified national reports to quantify the impact of the tariff hike on institutions such as NAUTH and COOUTH. Findings reveal a sustained escalation in monthly electricity bills up to 12.7 million for 150,000 kWh consumption , compounded by rising diesel expenditures due to inconsistent grid supply, thereby creating a dual financial burden. Comparative reviews of teaching hospitals nationwide UCH, LUTH, ABUTH confirm that the crisis is systemic rather than localized. The study argues that the current tariff structure undermines healthcare affordability, pushing hospitals toward operational insolvency. Leveraging the regulatory autonomy granted by the Electricity Act 2023, the paper recommends the establishment of a state regulated Social Health Tariff, deployment of solar hybrid mini grids through Power Purchase Agreements, and strict metering audits. These measures are proposed as urgent pathways to ensure energy affordability, preserve clinical service delivery, and strengthen the resilience of Anambra State's public health system. Ibekwe Arinze Ignatius | Josephat Chukwudi Akabuike | Ibekwe Adaobi Maryann | Nwauzor Chioma Vivian | Francis Chukwubuikem Ibekwe | Nkiru Maria-Assumpta Akabuike "Evaluating the Impact of Rising Electricity Tariffs on Government Hospitals in Anambra State: Challenges, Cost Burdens, Strategic Solutions, and Policy Pathways for Affordable Energy" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-10 | Issue-1 , February 2026, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd99987.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/engineering/electrical-engineering/99987/evaluating-the-impact-of-rising-electricity-tariffs-on-government-hospitals-in-anambra-state-challenges-cost-burdens-strategic-solutions-and-policy-pathways-for-affordable-energy/ibekwe-arinze-ignatius