The Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) has announced a groundbreaking $100 million initiative called the “Safe Grid” plan in a significant stride to combat the persistent power shortages and blackouts caused by frequent national grid collapses.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the project is set to provide a dependable power supply to Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states, where KEDCO has reported receiving less than half of its allocated power from the national grid, affecting the company’s ability to deliver stable electricity to its franchise areas.
According to Sani Bala Sani, Head of Corporate Communications for KEDCO, this shortfall has severely impacted local communities, institutions, and businesses, as well as KEDCO’s financial performance.
The challenges with grid allocation have led to frequent power disruptions, driving the company to devise a solution to reduce its dependence on the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).
“Our franchise area continues to suffer due to grid allocation challenges, and we are receiving less than half of what is needed,” the statement from KEDCO reads.
“The ‘Safe Grid’ will be powered by embedded electricity generation in KEDCO’s network to ensure energy security and eliminate the risks associated with absolute dependence on the national grid.”
The “Safe Grid” project is designed to supply a consistent 24-hour power service, with a phased approach to reach the 100MW target, ensuring industrial stability, economic growth, and job security across the three states.
As part of the project’s initial phase, KEDCO is developing a 20MW power plant in Tamburawa under a $20 million emergency project in collaboration with Utilita, with the plant expected to commence operations by the end of this year.
In addition to this, KEDCO has outlined plans to augment the Safe Grid’s capacity with renewable and alternative power sources.
These include sourcing 10MW from Haske Solar Power Plant, incorporating 16MW from the Tiga and Challawa hydroelectric projects, and negotiating with the Federal Ministry of Power to add the 10MW Katsina Wind Farm to its network. With these resources,
KEDCO intends to establish a resilient power system to support critical industries, commercial zones, and essential government infrastructure.
Through collaboration with the state governments, KEDCO aims to reduce reliance on the national grid while ensuring a reliable power supply to its customers in the Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa regions.
This consistent power delivery is expected to safeguard key industries, bolster socio-economic activities, and protect jobs within the KEDCO franchise area.
KEDCO’s commitment to embedded generation signifies a proactive response to Nigeria’s frequent grid instability.
With the Safe Grid, KEDCO envisions a transformative energy solution to power Kano and surrounding states, enabling sustainable growth and competitive advantage for businesses.
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