The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) proudly announces that the Nigerian power grid has maintained 400 consecutive days of uninterrupted operation, equivalent to 13.3 months of consistent stability. This milestone was revealed by TCN’s General Manager, Mrs. Ndidi Mbah, in a statement released on Tuesday.
The achievement signifies a significant stride in Nigeria’s ongoing endeavors to fortify its power infrastructure and ensure dependable electricity supply to distribution centers for subsequent distribution to customers across the nation. This sustained reliability and stability in the Nigerian power grid can be attributed to a strategic blend of measures and investments implemented by TCN’s management.
Key factors contributing to this remarkable accomplishment include the Configuration and Enforcement of Free Governor Control and the effective Under-frequency Relay Scheme, among others. Mrs. Mbah outlined these pivotal elements that played a role in this achievement.
To address potential challenges stemming from generation shortfalls and frequency declines, TCN established an Under Frequency Relay Scheme. This scheme operates at critical stages to avert disruptions by triggering circuit breaker trips or alerting network operators, thereby preventing system collapse.
TCN’s in-house engineers implemented the IoT/VPN for Enhanced Grid Visibility. By employing IoT sensors and devices, this real-time monitoring capability proactively identifies issues, mitigating potential disruptions. Ongoing efforts are directed towards expanding this visibility by incorporating additional transmission stations through IoT integration.
Furthermore, TCN’s proactive approach extended to infrastructure upgrades, transforming the grid from a radial network to a loop system. Substantial investments in the construction and dualization of critical circuits, as well as the modernization of transmission infrastructure, have enhanced grid resilience and operational flexibility.
The company’s enhanced maintenance regime, featuring regular inspections, prompt repairs, and proactive preventive maintenance strategies, safeguards power plants, transmission lines, and substations. This approach preserves infrastructure health, operational reliability, and efficient power flow. Regular mechanized line tracing has notably reduced equipment downtime, particularly in forested areas where TCN’s transmission lines are situated.
The dedicated and trained teams of staff have consistently demonstrated swift crisis resolution during emergencies. Their commitment to grid management and resilience is underscored by clear communication, collaboration, and continuous training.
The collaboration between TCN and stakeholders in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) has yielded joint initiatives such as Power Purchase Agreements, Service Level Agreements, Power Evacuation Agreements, and NESI situation room reports. Regular evaluations enhance real-time monitoring and adjustment, fostering a robust power landscape.
The achievement of over 400 days of uninterrupted stability in the Nigerian power grid demonstrates the nation’s dedication to advancing its power infrastructure. This success is attributed to heightened efficiency, technology adoption, dedicated personnel, strategic measures, and collaborative partnerships. It signifies the potential for positive transformation within the energy sector. With unwavering determination, continuous investments, and collective efforts, the nation is poised for a more robust and dependable power system.
