In a strategic move aimed at enhancing power transmission capacity and improving distribution in Edo, Delta, Ondo, and Ekiti states, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) Benin region has initiated an extensive expansion and upgrade of its work centers.
The General Manager of TCN in the region, Engr. Issac Okpe, revealed this significant development during an interaction with journalists after touring facilities in Benin region, Benin sub-region, and Ihovbor work center in Benin City.
According to Okpe, the ongoing expansion and upgrade in the Benin region will result in a substantial increase in capacity. The current 330kV level capacity of approximately 615 megawatts is projected to surge to 1,152.5 megawatts. Similarly, at the 132kV level, the capacity is expected to rise from 984 megawatts to an impressive 1,744 megawatts.
Okpe outlined the key projects involved, including the expansion and upgrading of power transformers at various locations such as Benin region, Benin sub-region, and Ihovbor work center. He emphasized the significance of these initiatives in meeting the energy demands of Edo State, parts of Delta, Ondo, and Ekiti states, according to Dailytrust.
The projects include transformer upgrades, commissioning of new transformers, restoration of existing transformers, and the installation of additional transformers at various substations across the region.
The general manager highlighted the challenges faced by TCN, such as vandalization of facilities, encroachment on TCN land, and unauthorized activities under transmission towers and power lines. He issued a stern warning against these actions, emphasizing the potential dangers and fatal consequences, including instant death, associated with such activities.
Okpe stressed TCN’s crucial role in evacuating electricity from Generating Companies (GENCOS) and delivering it to Distribution Companies (DISCOS). The Benin region, covering Edo State, Delta State, and parts of Ondo and Ekiti States, plays a pivotal role in the national grid, with Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) as its primary customer.
Several of the ongoing projects are expected to be unveiled before the end of December 2023 and January 2024, marking a significant milestone in the efforts to strengthen the power transmission infrastructure in the region.
