Abia Announces Progress on Power Supply to Aba, To Restore 50MW Grid Supply

UMUAHIA — The Abia State Government has announced significant progress in efforts to strengthen electricity supply to the Aba Ring-Fenced Area to ensure greater reliability and sustainability for businesses, industries and residents.

The update was contained in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday.

According to the Commissioner, following recent engagements among the Abia State Government, Geometric Power Aba Limited, GPAL, the Nigerian Independent System Operator, NISO, and the Niger Delta Power Holding Company, NDPHC, progress has been made towards the restoration of up to 50MW of grid electricity supply to the Aba Power network.

He said the restoration of the 50MW grid supply is expected to provide a backup source of electricity for the Aba Ring-Fenced Area for emergency purposes only and enhance the capacity of the system to meet growing electricity needs.

“The State Government recognizes that a reliable electricity system requires diversification of energy sources and adequate contingency arrangements,” Monday stated.

Consequently, he said government in collaboration with Geometric Power, NDPHC and relevant stakeholders has made progress in securing an alternative gas supply option for the Geometric Power Plant.

“The proposed alternative gas arrangement is intended to provide a reliable backup to the existing gas supply system, to reduce the risk associated with dependence on a single source of supply and ensure that gas availability does not unnecessarily interrupt electricity generation,” he explained.

The Commissioner noted that the initiative is particularly important because sustainability of electricity supply to Aba is critical to the continued growth of the city’s industrial and commercial economy and to the broader economic development agenda of Governor Alex Otti.

He disclosed that government is also engaging relevant Federal Government agencies, power sector operators, gas suppliers and other strategic stakeholders to facilitate necessary technical, commercial and regulatory arrangements for a more resilient power architecture for Aba.

The government appreciated the patience of electricity consumers, particularly industries and residents who depend on reliable power for livelihoods, and assured that the Ministry of Power and Public Utilities will continue to provide updates as initiatives progress.

It also expressed appreciation to Geometric Power, NISO and NDPHC for their cooperation, technical support and contribution to strengthening electricity supply and advancing economic development of Abia State.“The Abia State Government remains committed to building a stable, reliable and sustainable electricity system that supports industrialization, job creation, investment and improved quality of life for the people of Abia State,” the statement added.