THE National Electricity Power Grid has collapsed for the second time in three days, leading to blackouts in several parts of the country.
The system outage happened at about 11:30 today, several electricity distribution companies said.
“Please be informed that we experienced a system outage today 07 November 2024 at 11:29hrs affecting supply within our network,” the Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) serving parts of Lagos and Ogun states wrote on X.com
“Restoration of supply is ongoing in collaboration with our critical stakeholders.
“Kindly bear with us.”
Eighteen-Eleven Media reports that the grid on Tuesday collapsed for the tenth time in 2024. The collapse happened at about 1;52 pm.
According to the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the collapse was a result of a series of lines and generators trippings that caused instability of the grid and, consequently, the partial disturbance of the system.
The TCN via a statement by Ndidi Mbah, General Manager, Public Affairs, said data from the National Control Centre (NCC) revealed that a part of the grid was not affected by the bulk power disruption.
“TCN engineers are already working to quickly restore bulk power supply to the states affected by the partial disturbance. Presently, bulk power supply has been restored to Abuja, at 2.49 pm, and we are gradually restoring to other parts of the country.
“We sincerely apologize for every inconvenience this may cause our electricity customers”, the statement read in part.
…Collapse Caused By Sudden Rise In Frequency From 50.33Hz To 51.44Hz – TCN
Meanwhile, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has attributed the latest collapse to a sudden rise in frequency from 50.33Hz to 51.44Hz.
According to Ndidi Mbah, General Manager, Public Affairs of the company, recovery efforts began immediately, and the Abuja Axis was restored within … minutes. Recovery is still ongoing, she stated.
Ndidi Mbah’s statement is hereunder reproduced
TCN Updates on Grid Disturbance and Ongoing Repair Works
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) wishes to inform the public that the national grid experienced a disturbance at approximately 11:29 am this morning, caused by a sudden rise in frequency from 50.33Hz to 51.44Hz. Recovery efforts began immediately, and the Abuja Axis was restored within … minutes. Recovery is still ongoing.
The frequency spike was caused by issues encountered at one of TCN’s substations, which had to be shut down to prevent further complications. In addition to this, TCN is actively engaged in significant repair work on several critical transmission lines and substations. This includes the 330kV transmission line along the Shiroro–Mando axis, major upgrades at the Jebba Transmission Substation, and the restoration of the second Ugwuaji–Apir 330kV transmission line.
Furthermore, following the submission of the investigative report on the causes of previous grid collapses, TCN has begun addressing the identified weaknesses in the transmission system. Efforts are being made to close the gaps highlighted in the report, and to enhance the overall stability and resilience of the grid. These efforts include both technical upgrades and strategic interventions based on the committee’s recommendations.
However, it is important to note that while these repairs and improvements are underway, some degree of instability in the system is likely to persist until all major works are completed. TCN acknowledges the impact of these disruptions and kindly asks for the understanding and patience of the public during this challenging period.
The company remains committed to improving the reliability of electricity supply, recognizing the vital role that stable power plays in Nigeria’s socio-economic development. TCN assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the grid’s long-term stability, in line with the recommendations of the investigative committee, while also addressing infrastructure damage such as vandalized transmission lines.
Ndidi Mbah
GM, Public Affairs
7/11/24
Eighteen-Eleven Media