Journal of Management & Corporate Sustainablity

This study examined the relationship between adaptive capacity and operational performance in electricity distribution companies in the South-South Region of Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, targeting Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company and Benin Electricity Distribution Company, with a population of 442 employees. A sample size of 205 respondents was determined using the Yamane formula, and data were collected via structured questionnaires. The independent variable, adaptive capacity was measured, while operational performance was measured using service quality and service flexibility. Findings revealed a significant and positive relationship between adaptive capacity and service quality (β = 0.524, p < 0.05), as well as between adaptive capacity and service flexibility (β = 0.496, p < 0.05). The coefficients of determination (R²) were 0.275 and 0.246, respectively, indicating that adaptive capacity accounts for 27.5% and 24.6% of the variations in service quality and service flexibility. These results underscore the critical role of adaptive capacity in enhancing operational performance within electricity distribution firms. The study concludes that companies with higher adaptive capabilities are better positioned to improve service delivery and respond flexibly to customer needs. The study recommended the implementation of predictive maintenance using data analytics to minimize equipment failure and the deployment of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) to facilitate real-time energy monitoring and management. Overall, strengthening adaptive capacity can significantly boost the efficiency, responsiveness, and reliability of electricity distribution companies in the South-South region of Nigeria.