The Kano Electricity Distribution Company has expressed concern over persistent electricity supply challenges affecting Northwestern states, attributing the situation to constraints within the Transmission Company of Nigeria and the national grid.
In a statement issued by its Head of Corporate Communications, Sani Bala Sani, the company said its network currently relies on only two major transmission routes into the Kano Complex through Kaduna and Jos. According to KEDCO, this limited transmission redundancy has significantly constrained the reliability and stability of electricity supply to Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, and surrounding areas.
The company explained that the network remains highly vulnerable to outages whenever faults occur on either of the two routes. It stressed the urgent need for enhanced security, maintenance, and capacity expansion along the Shiroro Mando Kano transmission corridor to improve supply stability.
KEDCO noted that recent scheduled maintenance and service interventions on transmission lines, particularly the installation of Optical Ground Wire along key routes, have resulted in recurring weekend downtimes. These disruptions, it said, have negatively impacted industrial productivity and the welfare of residents across its franchise areas.
The distribution company appealed to the Federal Government through the Ministry of Power to direct TCN to prioritise critical transmission projects and accelerate ongoing upgrades. It emphasised that improved transmission stability is essential for sustaining economic activities and ensuring reliable electricity for homes and businesses.
In the interim, KEDCO said it would strategically manage available supply to prioritise industrial hubs and small scale businesses. The company also disclosed ongoing engagement with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission and the Nigerian Independent System Operator to improve coordination.
KEDCO commended the Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa state governments for investing in power projects, including hybrid and gas generation initiatives aimed at boosting regional supply.
Leave a comment