Nigeria’s Electricity Generation Sees Significant Increase
Nigeria’s electricity generation has experienced a remarkable 30% surge this week, approaching a peak of 6,000 megawatts (MW) as a result of upgrades to the country’s aging power infrastructure. Despite having the capacity to generate up to 13,000 MW, outdated transmission lines have historically constrained supply, leading consumers to rely heavily on expensive generators.
Sule Abdulaziz, the head of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), disclosed that the country has recently put into operation 66 new transformers, expanded substations, and reinforced transmission lines, all contributing to the substantial growth in electricity generation. This progress is largely attributed to the Siemens-led grid modernization project that aimed to deliver 7,000 MW by 2021. While logistical and financial challenges initially impeded the project’s timelines, funding secured from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and other sources has propelled the initiative forward.
According to a report by Reuters, the project is now set to exceed 10,000 MW by 2026, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its power generation capacity and meet the growing energy demands of its population.