TCN: Nationwide Power Generation, Supply Return to Normalcy in Two Days

By Chineme Okafor in Abuja

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) on Tuesday said that electricity generation and supply in Nigeria could return to the levels they were before gas supply to about six generation companies (Gencos) was cut off some four days ago.

On Sunday, TCN disclosed that the total volume of electricity generated and distributed across homes and offices in Nigeria had gone down by 1,087.6 megawatts (MW), adding that gas supply to Ihovbor, Azura, Omotosho, Geregu, Olorunsogo and Sapele power plants was cut off because the pipeline that supplied gas to them was broken.

It however said the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has restored the gas pipeline that was broken and which resulted in the shutdown of the Gencos.

TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Mrs. Ndidi Mbah, stated in a statement she sent to THISDAY in Abuja, that gas supply to the Gencos was gradually building up, adding that within a day or two, electricity generation and supply would be restored to normalcy.

“The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) hereby states that there is significant improvement in gas supply to power generating plants. NNPC has restored the ruptured pipeline and gas is gradually building up in most generating stations and in a day or two day it is expected that gas and power supply would be back to normal,” said Mbah, in the statement she signed.

She further stated: “An indication that gas supply has improved is the increase in power generation into the national grid. As reported by the NCC (National Control Centre), has risen to 3,876.9MW as at 17.00hrs on Monday, 18th June, 2018.”

While commending stakeholders in the power sector for what she said was a quick response to the drop in power generation and supply, Mbah noted that as soon as the gas build-up was completed, all the affected generating stations will resume normal generation into the grid.

“TCN wishes to use this opportunity to commend NNPC especially NGC (Nigerian Gas Company) for the quick intervention and also appreciates the ministry of power, Gencos, Discos and electricity customers for their cooperation during the crises period,” Mbah, stated.

According to her, the TCN would through the implementation of its Transmission Rehabilitation and Expansion Programme (TREP) build new substations as well as upgrade existing ones and transmission lines all over the country.

She said: “This is expected to further stabilise the grid and also put necessary flexibility and redundancy in line with N-1 capacity. TCN will continue to count on all Nigerians for support and understanding as it continues to expand the nations’ grid.”

Mbah had, based on the drop in generation, stated that it was inevitable that the TCN managed the country’s transmission system by shedding electricity loads to electricity distribution companies (Discos) to avoid its complete collapse.

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