THE current epileptic power supply situation in the country has been attributed to the temporary shutdown to facilitate maintenance purposes of the Egbin Power Station.
The power station, one of the largest thermal power stations in the country, was shut at 11:13 hours on 18 December 2023, for maintenance expected to last for three days. The shutdown has resulted in a substantial reduction in the national power grid’s capacity.
Egbin Power Station, a cornerstone in Nigeria’s power generation framework, contributes a substantial 676MW of bulk power to the national grid.
The station’s closure is necessary to allow the Nigeria Gas Company (NGC) to conduct vital maintenance on the gas pipeline that supplies the facility.
Key points regarding the shutdown
- This maintenance is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability and safety of the power supply system.
- The temporary shutdown of the station will result in a significant reduction of power available to distribution companies and load centres nationwide.
- This decrease in supply could lead to temporary power outages or load shedding in various parts of the country, potentially impacting residential, commercial, and industrial activities.
- In response to the shutdown, the government and power distribution companies are expected to implement contingency measures to mitigate the impact on end users.
- These measures might include the activation of alternative power sources and the implementation of strategic load management to balance the reduced supply.
Members of the public have been advised to anticipate possible power fluctuations during the maintenance period and to plan accordingly.
The power sector authorities have reassured the public that the maintenance is a necessary step towards ensuring the long-term stability and efficiency of the national power grid.
While the temporary shutdown of the Egbin Power Station poses immediate challenges to power distribution across the country, it is a crucial step in maintaining and upgrading the nation’s power infrastructure.
The maintenance work conducted by the NGC is essential for ensuring the reliability and safety of the power supply, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic and industrial growth.
Eighteen-Eleven Media