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From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja
As part of efforts to curb grid collapse, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has implemented an ambitious digital transformation initiative through a strategic framework known as the Nigerian Electricity Grid Maintenance, Expansion and Rehabilitation Programme (NEGMERP), a feat that helped prevent grid collapse for over 421 days.
In a statement, the General Manager, Public Affairs, Mrs Ndidi Mbah, said the programme has enabled the implementation of numerous capital and reinforcement projects across various transmission regions, thereby strengthening the grid for efficient electricity evacuation and transmission.
“Notably, TCN has successfully completed several substations, initiated the reconductoring of ageing and low-capacity transmission lines, replaced aged transformers with new ones, and upgraded the capacities of existing transformers. In addition, multiple system generation peaks were recorded, including an all-time peak of 5,802 MW.
“To enhance efficiency and effectiveness, TCN embraced digital transformation through the utilisation of internal solutions and vendor-procured applications. Prior to the unbundling of TCN this year, this transformation encompassed the upgrade of the TCN web portal to achieve transparency and facilitate the exchange of information critical to market operations,” TCN said.
According to Mbah, under the leadership of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO), Engineer Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz, the company has recorded notable progress in project delivery and launched the ambitious digital transformation initiative through the NEGMERP framework. This programme, she said, has enabled the implementation of numerous capital and reinforcement projects across various transmission regions, thereby strengthening the grid for efficient electricity evacuation and transmission.
Notably, TCN has successfully completed several substations, initiated the reconductoring of ageing and low-capacity transmission lines, replaced aged transformers with new ones, and upgraded the capacities of existing transformers.
“In addition, multiple system generation peaks were recorded, including an all-time peak of 5,802 MW. Remarkably, for a period spanning 421 days from 20 July 2022 to 13 September 2023, the national grid did not experience any collapse.
“To enhance efficiency and effectiveness, TCN embraced digital transformation through the utilisation of internal solutions and vendor-procured applications. Prior to the unbundling of TCN this year, this transformation encompassed the upgrade of the TCN web portal to achieve transparency and facilitate the exchange of information critical to market operations.
“To address the crucial need for grid visibility, TCN engineers developed an in-house solution leveraging the ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) to obtain near real-time data from generators and substations. This was also done before the unbundling of TCN. The solution significantly improved grid visibility, with all generators and a substantial number of substations becoming visible to the grid controllers at the National Control Centre (NCC).
“Additionally, the management team, led by the MD, signed a contract for a new Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System/Energy Management System (SCADA/EMS) and communication systems upgrade, replacing the outdated NEPA-era system. While awaiting the full implementation of the advanced SCADA/EMS network, TCN recognised the value of small-scale solutions that yield impactful results.
“TCN is also automating and digitising all its processes in alignment with the organisation’s corporate goals and has implemented various digitalisation projects. It places emphasis on maintaining equipment and infrastructure in a timely manner through proactive maintenance practices and the procurement of necessary spare parts, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of its operations. This commitment to regular maintenance helps prevent disruptions, enhances system performance and reinforces TCN’s reputation as a dependable transmission service provider.
“In recognition of the importance of a conducive workplace in motivating employees to perform at their best, the current management has undertaken initiatives to ensure that the work environment supports productivity and promotes a holistic approach to work, fostering a productive and compassionate work culture,” she said.
