Here’re what FG can do to check grid collapses

Nigeria has continued to grapple with frequent grid collapses. From January till date, the nation has recorded at least 11 partial and full national grid collapses, indicating an underlying problem in the country’s power sector.

As a result of the ugly situation, the Federal Government has been urged to adopt measures that can stabilise power supply and ensure a reliable energy infrastructure.

Here are seven key actions the federal government can take to address this pressing issue.

Read also: Seven things FG can do to reduce incessant grid collapses

First, there is an urgent need for infrastructure upgrade. Analysts have urged the federal government to upgrade and replace outdated power infrastructure, noting that modernising the power grid with state-of-the-art equipment will reduce the frequency of breakdowns and improve overall efficiency.

“The transmission system is stressed. Then, there is a need to expand the transmission system so as to carry a huge amount of power from the generating station to the consumer. More generating stations should be built so as to be able to meet up with the power demand by the consumer,” said Benjamin Akinloye, P.O. Oshevire, and Ayebatonye Epemu, energy experts, in a paper entitled, ‘Evaluation Of System Collapse Incidences On The Nigeria Power System.’

Also, there is a need for Nigeria to adopt enhanced maintenance practices around power infrastructures. Implementing a robust maintenance schedule for existing equipment and facilities is crucial. Regular inspections and timely repairs can prevent minor issues from escalating into major disruptions, analysts argue.

Speaking during a recent public hearing organised by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in Abuja, Joy Ogaji, chief executive officer, Association of Power Generation Companies, decried the state infrastructure in the sector, noting that Nigeria still lacks most of the infrastructures needed to effectively and efficiently transmit power to Nigerians.

According to Ogaji, the national grid from 2013 till date has collapsed more than 162 times, making it one of the most unreliable grid systems in the world. She stressed the need for a reliable database to capture happenings on the grid.

“We did a study and found out that 95 percent of the time from 2013 till date, the grid has not complied with the grid code of 50Hz.”

Read also: Why Nigeria grid collapses frequently

Analysts also stress the need for investment in technology. The deployment of advanced technologies such as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems is seen as essential for real-time monitoring and control of the grid. These systems can help detect faults early and manage load distribution more effectively.

Moreover, there is also the need for decentralisation of power generation. Encouraging the development of decentralised power generation, such as mini-grids and renewable energy sources, can reduce the strain on the central grid. Localised power generation can also enhance energy security and resilience.

Apart from these four measures, analysts have called for improved security measures around power infrastructure. They say enhancing security around critical power infrastructure is vital to prevent vandalism and theft, which are significant causes of grid failures. Employing surveillance systems and increasing patrols can deter such activities, analysts say.

There is also a need for regulatory reforms. Strengthening the regulatory framework governing the power sector can attract private investment and encourage best practices. Clear and consistent policies will foster a conducive environment for growth and innovation in the energy sector, experts say.

Analysts also say that Nigeria must begin to look to public-private partnerships around power infrastructure.

Leveraging public-private partnerships (PPPs) can mobilise the necessary funds and expertise for large-scale power projects. Collaborating with private entities can expedite the development and implementation of crucial infrastructure projects, experts note.

Read also: Minister attributes grid collapses to vandalism, lack of maintenance

In its November 2024 edition, Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership said Nigeria’s persistent power grid collapse is not just an infrastructural problem but a systemic issue that requires a holistic approach to resolve.

“Stabilizing the grid demands collaborative effort, substantial investment, and regulatory reform. By focusing on decentralization, efficiency, and transparency, Nigeria can finally begin to break the cycle of blackouts and build a reliable power supply that powers economic growth and development for its people.”