TCN committed to managing grid amid challenges — Official

The Transmis-sion Company of Nigeria (TCN)  says  it remains committed to managing the grid and ensuring its stability amidst ongoing challenges.

In a statement signed by the General Manager, Public Affairs, Mrs Ndidi Mbah in Abuja on Sunday, identified the challenges to include the persistent low gas supply affecting power generation into the nation’s grid.

She said that the company’s diligent grid controllers work tirelessly day and night to balance the grid and prevent any kind of disturbance amidst challenges.

Mbah said the grid disturbance on March 28 was promptly managed by the company’s operators, with power restoration achieved in some areas within 21 minutes of the disturbance.

“We acknowledge the collaborative efforts of the Federal Government, particularly the minister of power, who has been working hard to address the root causes of low gas supply.

“The minister held meetings with Generating Companies (GenCos) and Gas Companies (GasCos) to secure a higher volume of gas supply and consistency for enhanced power generation.

“As efforts to stabilise gas supply progress, TCN emphasises the importance of consistent gas availability to sustain optimal power generation.

”It is a fact that low power generation substantially increases grid fragility,” she said.

Mbah said that in addition to gas supply challenges, TCN faces various sector-specific hurdles.

“Some impact other players in the value chain, but invariably affect grid stability,” she explained.

She said that vandalism was a persistent challenge, as clearly seen in the first quarter of 2024 in which five significant  incidents disrupted transmission operations, necessitating emergency repairs.

“In some cases, we effect complete tower reconstruction or transmission line replacement due to acts of vandalism.

“This highlights the critical need for increased community support and vigilance in protecting transmission infrastructure.

“TCN urges heightened vigilance for now, particularly in the Zuba area, following alerts of a planned attack on TCN facilities in the area,” she said.

She said  that the company implored residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities around power facilities in the area.

“We urge everyone, especially those living close to TCN towers nationwide, to join hands with the company in safeguarding power transmission towers and cables,” she said.