By Adewale Sanyaolu
Early hopes of steady power supply across the country brightened yesterday as the Federal Government commenced the deployment 10 power transformers and another 10 mobile substations from Siemens Energy under the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI).
Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, accompanied by Mr. Kenny Anuwe, MD/CEO of FGN Power Company, during a visit to the NEMSA facilities in Lagos to inspect the mobile substations that are designated for deployment at brownfield sites said the power equipment would address challenges around capacity constraints within the transmission network.
The equipment are currently being deployed at key sites across the country to increase transmission capacity constraints in the transmission sector by over 1300MW.
Notable sites include; Okene, Amukpe, Potiskum, Apo, Ihovbor, Birnin Kebbi, Ajah, Nike Lake, Kwanar Dangora, Maryland, Omouaran, Ojo, among others.
Highlighting the significance of mobile substations, Adelabu explained their versatility in providing power solutions, particularly in scenarios such as major load centers, stop gap measures during maintenance and for emergencies.
He added that the the flexibility of the mobile substation ensures swift responses to fluctuating power demands by contributing to uninterrupted service delivery.
‘‘Following the acceleration agreement signed at Cop28, FGN Power Company is now working with Siemens Energy to deliver Phase 1.
These 63MVA,132/33kV Mobile Substations play a critical role in the transmission network both for the upgrade of capacity and quick-win deployment to meet Nigeria’s growing energy demands. The substations are being strategically located to boost the efficiency and reliability of power supply across key economic hubs in the country.
Also, on the advantages of mobile substations, Adelabu emphasized the speed at which they can be deployed.
“Mobile Substations can be manufactured and shipped to Nigeria within one year. In parallel, end-destination sites are prepared, allowing the substations to leave for immediate deployment upon arrival at Nigerian ports.
Another significant advantage is the quick installation process, particularly as demand from Distribution Companies (DisCos) grows. Traditional substations are constructed to meet future DisCos demand that might not materialize.
In contrast, mobile substations can be installed swiftly, ensuring timely responses to increasing demand.”
Expressing his satisfaction with the progress made, the Minister stated that the PPI is a monumental effort aimed to transform Nigeria’s Power Sector.
He explained that the Inspection of these substations signifies a crucial milestone in our journey towards achieving our objectives, saying the Federal Government remain steadfast in its commitment to executing every aspect of this initiative with precision and effectiveness.
‘‘The inspection of these substations and showcasing their availability for deployment should encourage Nigerians that Government is committed to the reform of the sector and infrastructure delivery. Mr. President remains steadfast in his commitment to executing every aspect of this initiative’’.
Corroborating the the Minister’s position, Anuwe emphasized the importance of timely deployment and maintenance of these substations.
“As a key player in Nigeria’s power landscape, FGN Power Company is fully dedicated to supporting the PPI’s implementation.
These substations are instrumental in addressing longstanding challenges within our power sector, and we are resolute in the PPI’s mandate as Government has spared no resources.”
According to him, the inspection underscores the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and excellence in infrastructure project execution.
‘‘As Nigeria continues its pursuit of energy sufficiency and economic prosperity, initiatives like the PPI underscore the nation’s unwavering determination to overcome challenges and unlock its full potential.’’