TCN Records Second System Collapse: Nigeria’s Electricity Grid Faces Renewed Turmoil

March 29, 2024March 29, 2024

Read Time:1 Minute, 27 Second

A picture of Nigerian's Electricity Grid

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has faced its second electricity system collapse of 2024, disrupting the operations of DisCos nationwide. Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) informed customers of the collapse at 16:28 hours, leading to widespread power loss. EKEDC assured customers of collaboration with partners for swift restoration while urging patience.

Across the nation, numerous areas experienced power outages, forcing businesses and households to resort to expensive alternative power sources. TCN spokesperson, Mrs. Ndid Mba, acknowledged the collapse and outlined restoration efforts, mentioning successful power restoration in Benin, Abuja, and other regions.

This incident marks a series of system collapses, reminiscent of the three nationwide blackouts in 2023, occurring on September 14, 19, and December 11. Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, expressed concerns over the recurring collapses, attributing them to various challenges, including outstanding subsidy debts. Adelabu appealed to Nigerians for patience amid the sector’s challenges.

Nigerian Energy Leaders Unite: Micro-Grids and Renewables Proposed to Revolutionize Power Sector Amid The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) Crisis

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN): A picture of the distribution panel of the Nigerian Power Sector

In response to the crisis, CEO of Kodion Energy, Mr. Joshua Okorie, proposed breaking the national power grid into micro-grid systems along state lines. Okorie argued for the feasibility and efficiency of managing smaller grids, highlighting the limitations of the current centralized system. He emphasized the need for modernizing Nigeria’s grid infrastructure to meet 21st-century demands.

Adelabu echoed Okorie’s sentiments, acknowledging the outdated infrastructure and advocating for a smarter grid system. He pointed to successful localized power initiatives like the one in Aba, Abia State, as models for national improvement. Despite challenges, Adelabu sees potential in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector, particularly in harnessing solar resources to address the widespread lack of electricity access, especially in rural areas.