TCN Explains Delays In Restoring Electricity To Northern Regions

TCN Explains Delays In Restoring Electricity To Northern RegionsThe Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced that power outages in parts of Northern Nigeria will continue due to security challenges hindering repairs on critical transmission lines. Efforts to restore electricity through alternative routes have faced significant setbacks, and TCN has indicated that a complete resolution will take time.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The ongoing blackout, which has lasted over four days, started when vandals damaged the Shiroro-Mando transmission line, a crucial supply route for northern states. In an attempt to redirect power, TCN tried using the Ugwuaji-Apir 330-kilovolt (kV) double-circuit line, but a tripping incident on this line has further complicated restoration efforts.

During a hearing by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Engr. Nafisatu Asabe Ali, Executive Director of the Independent System Operator at TCN, noted that while the Ugwuaji-Apir line has a capacity to transmit up to 750 megawatts (MW) of power, only 350 MW can currently be safely transmitted to Kano, Kaduna, and parts of the Niger Republic due to voltage issues in Kano. The Shiroro-Mando line remains out of service due to ongoing security risks in the area where it was vandalized. Despite having the necessary materials for repairs, TCN has been advised by the National Security Adviser’s Office that the site is currently inaccessible.

At present, TCN is sharing a limited 250 MW with the Niger Republic, and even when the Ugwuaji-Apir line is restored, the maximum transmission capacity for the region will only be 350 MW.

NERC Chairman Garba Usman expressed concern over TCN’s recurring equipment failures, particularly transformer explosions, which have contributed to frequent outages. He urged TCN to implement stronger protective measures to prevent transformer fires that disrupt the power grid.

Joy Ogaji, Managing Director of the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC), pointed out that Nigeria has experienced 162 instances of grid collapse since 2013.

In response to these challenges, the House of Representatives has urged the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to collaborate with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigerian Army, and other security agencies to develop a strategic security plan to protect essential power transmission infrastructure nationwide. This resolution followed a motion by Rep. Sani Umar Bala, who highlighted the impact of vandalism on frequent power outages affecting businesses, socio-economic activities, and overall quality of life, as well as the significant costs incurred by the government. The House also recommended the deployment of advanced surveillance systems, including drones and CCTV cameras, to monitor transmission lines in high-risk areas.

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