The Abia State government, through the Ministry of Power and Public Utilities, said plans were underway to boost reliable electricity in Aba, the commercial nerve of the state.
According to the state government, the ongoing efforts by the state was to strengthen electricity supply to the Aba Ring-Fenced Area to ensure greater reliability and sustainability of power supply to businesses, industries and residents across Aba and its environs.
Our correspondent reports that the state government recently had an engagement with the management of Geometric Power Aba Limited (GPAL), the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) and the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) as the state build towards the restoration of up to 50Mw of grid electricity supply to the Aba Power network.
The restoration of the 50Mw grid supply, it was gathered, is expected to provide a backup source of electricity for the Aba Ring-Fenced Area for emergency purposes only and also to enhance the capacity of the system to meet the growing electricity needs of industries, businesses and households.
According to Hon. Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, while reacting to efforts the state government was making to ensuring improved power supply in the state said: ‘The state government recognizes that a reliable electricity system requires diversification of energy sources and adequate contingency arrangements.
‘Consequently, the government in collaboration with Geometric Power, NDPHC and relevant stakeholders have 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.
‘The state government considers this initiative particularly important because the 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 the Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR.
‘The government is also engaging relevant Federal Government agencies, power sector operators, gas suppliers and other strategic stakeholders to facilitate the necessary technical, commercial and regulatory arrangements required to achieve a more resilient power supply architecture for Aba.
‘The government appreciates the patience and understanding of electricity consumers, particularly industries, businesses and residents who depend on reliable power for their livelihoods and operations. The Ministry of Power and Public Utilities will continue to provide updates as these initiatives progresses.
‘The government therefore expresses its appreciation to Geometric Power, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) and the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) for their cooperation, technical support and contribution in strengthening electricity supply and advancing the 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.’