By Abubakar Ismail
The Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN has identified gas constraints at the Ibom Power Plant as the cause of a recent power grid collapse affecting several transmission substations in Akwa Ibom State, according to TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah.
Mbah clarified that the total generation on the grid as at three hours before the partial collapse, stood at 3,901.25 Megawatts (MW). However, the system faced significant challenges due to gas limitations at the Ibom Power Plant, which serves critical areas such as Eket, Ekim, Itu, and Uyo transmission substations in Akwa Ibom State.
“In the period leading up to the partial disturbance, Sapele Steam & Egbin Substations experienced significant losses totaling 373.16MW”.
According to Mbah, This loss, coupled with the persistently low power generation experienced since January 2024, contributed to the imbalance in the system, ultimately leading to the partial collapse.
The TCN spokesperson emphasized the importance of addressing gas constraints to ensure grid stability. “Gas constraints continue to impact grid flexibility and stability,” Mbah stated. “Ensuring sufficient gas supply to power generating stations is crucial for grid stability, as sufficient generation allows for better grid management in the event of sudden generation losses like this.”
Furthermore, Mbah highlighted TCN’s commitment to investigating the cause of the tripping at Sapele Steam & Egbin power generating units. This investigation aims to prevent similar incidents in the future and bolster the resilience of Nigeria’s power infrastructure.
As of January 2024, Nigeria has been grappling with low power generation, exacerbating the effects of gas limitations on the grid. These challenges not only affect domestic consumers but also have implications for industries, businesses, and overall economic productivity.
Experts have long emphasized the need for diversification in Nigeria’s energy mix to reduce dependence on gas-powered generation. Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, present viable alternatives that can help mitigate the impact of gas constraints and enhance energy security.
In addition to diversification, improving infrastructure and enhancing the efficiency of power distribution networks are essential steps toward achieving a more reliable and sustainable energy system in Nigeria. Investment in transmission and distribution infrastructure, coupled with the adoption of smart grid technologies, can help optimize the use of available resources and minimize losses in the power supply chain.
“Gas constraints continue to impact grid flexibility and stability. Ensuring sufficient gas supply to power generating stations is crucial for grid stability as sufficient generation allows for better grid management in the event of sudden generation losses like this. TCN will investigate the cause of tripping of Sapele Steam & Egbin power generating units,” she added.