- TCN shouldn’t be solely responsible for national grid collapses.
- Grid collapses are caused by multiple factors: generation, transmission, and distribution issues.
- Recent grid disturbances occurred twice within one week.
- Progress made since 2015: reduced grid collapses.
- Need for substantial investment in Nigeria’s transmission infrastructure.
- Most equipment is outdated (40-50 years old).
- Continuous investment required for grid infrastructure.
- Maintenance efforts financed through internally generated revenue (IGR).
Sule Abdulaziz, the CEO of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), emphasizes that his organization shouldn’t bear the sole responsibility for the recurring national grid collapses in Nigeria. He attributes these collapses to various factors, including generation, transmission, and distribution system issues .
During a recent interview, Abdulaziz highlighted that grid disturbances occurred twice within the same week, but clarified that reports of another collapse on October 15 were incorrect. He acknowledged that TCN must work harder to prevent frequent collapses but noted progress made since 2015, with a significant reduction in grid collapses .
Abdulaziz also stressed the need for substantial investment in Nigeria’s transmission infrastructure, which has been neglected for many years. He explained that most equipment is outdated, with some being 50 years old, making it impossible for them to work perfectly .
To address this, Abdulaziz advocated for continuous investment in grid infrastructure, replacing outdated equipment, and building new substations. He noted that while some projects are funded by the federal budget, most of TCN’s maintenance efforts are financed through internally generated revenue (IGR) .
Key Challenges and Solutions:
- Outdated Equipment: Replace outdated equipment with new ones.
- Continuous Investment: Invest in grid infrastructure continuously.
- Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance to change old equipment.
- Funding: Utilize internally generated revenue (IGR) for maintenance efforts.
By addressing these challenges, TCN aims to reduce grid collapses and improve Nigeria’s electricity supply .
