FG Plans to Add 150 Megawatts to National Grid by January – Minister

• The Federal Government plans to add 150 megawatts to Nigeria’s electricity supply by January 2025 as part of grid stabilization efforts
• Minister Adebayo Adelabu reported that the Siemens project has achieved 80% completion, contributing significantly to the national grid’s stability

The Federal Government aims to boost Nigeria’s electricity supply by adding 150 megawatts to the national grid by January 2025. During a meeting at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu disclosed this.

Adelabu noted that the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to stabilize the fragile national grid. He highlighted the role of partnerships and collaborative projects in driving these improvements, such as the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) spearheaded by Siemens.

The minister revealed that significant progress has been made since the agreement’s signing in December 2023. “The pilot phase is 80% complete. We have imported, installed, and commissioned eight of ten power transformers and mobile substations,” Adelabu stated.

The pilot stage has already added 750 megawatts to the grid, contributing to the observed relative stability. “By the end of the year, an additional 150 megawatts will come online as we complete the pilot phase and enter Phase One,” he added.

Phase One will involve upgrading 14 existing substations and constructing 23 new substations across Nigeria. The minister is awaiting final approvals from the Bureau of Public Procurement and the Federal Executive Council to secure financing for the project.

Adelabu acknowledged the challenges posed by the outdated national grid, describing it as fragile and needing comprehensive revamping. “Once Phase One is completed, the grid will see a major transformation, ensuring greater stability in the future,” he assured.

The minister also emphasized the importance of renewable energy in Nigeria’s power strategy, aligning with the country’s energy transition plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.

“We have abundant solar resources, with over 30 states receiving at least 10 hours of sunshine daily. Additionally, Nigeria has access to coastal winds in the south and desert winds in the north, making renewable energy a viable option,” Adelabu explained.

He called for stronger collaborations with nations like Germany, which possesses the necessary technology, to harness Nigeria’s natural resources effectively.

The minister proposed adopting off-grid systems where each state would generate power to improve electricity reliability.

“Each state and the FCT will have independent generating plants, reducing dependence on the national grid. This embedded network will shield states from grid failures,” he said.

The government’s focus on modernizing infrastructure and exploring renewable energy options aims to provide Nigerians with a sustainable and stable electricity supply.