The MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited (MEDL) has commenced a N3.5 billion network rehabilitation and upgrade programme under the Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP) to improve electricity supply across parts of Enugu State.
The Managing Director of MainPower, Dr Ernest Mapwaya, disclosed this while briefing newsmen in Enugu on Thursday, saying the project would strengthen critical distribution infrastructure, reduce technical and commercial losses and improve service delivery.
Mapwaya said the DISREP, an initiative of the Federal Government supported by the World Bank, would focus on metering, rehabilitation of critical infrastructure and other interventions aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s electricity distribution sector.
He said the first phase of the project covered the rehabilitation and upgrading of the 9th Mile Injection Substation, 9th Mile Industrial Feeder and Coca-Cola 33kV Feeder.
“It will also cover installation of seven new 500kVA, 11/0.415kV distribution transformers; rehabilitation of 10 existing 500kVA distribution transformers; and provision of 11kV switchgear to improve system protection, control and operational flexibility.
“The works are expected to be completed within five weeks. Contractors will work daily, including weekends, to ensure timely delivery,” he said.
The managing director said a major component of the programme was the upgrade of the approximately 28-kilometre Coca-Cola 33kV line from the Oji River Transmission Station to the 9th Mile Injection Substation.
Mapwaya said the existing 50mm² aluminium conductor single circuit would be replaced with a 150mm² Aluminium Conductor Steel Reinforced (ACSR) double circuit.
“The upgraded line will have a combined design thermal transfer capability of up to 36MW, subject to prevailing system conditions, voltage regulation and other operational requirements.
“The additional capacity will strengthen electricity supply to the 9th Mile industrial axis and support existing and prospective industrial customers,” he said.
According to him, beneficiaries of the intervention would include Sapphire, 7-Up, Honest Material, Coca-Cola, Wisdo, Enugu Water Works and other customers supplied through the 11kV industrial feeder.
He said the project would also relieve the Kingsway 2 Line, which serves Ogui and the Hilltop axis, thereby improving network flexibility and reliability in the areas.
On the 9th Mile Power Corridor, Mapwaya said the existing undersized 70mm² aluminium conductor on the 9th Mile 11kV industrial feeder would be replaced with a 150mm² aluminium conductor from the injection substation.
“This upgrade will address existing capacity constraints, reduce technical losses, improve voltage profiles and create additional capacity to accommodate growing industrial and commercial demands.
“Upon completion, the project is expected to significantly improve electricity supply to customers in Udi and Ezeagu Local Government Areas, including 9th Mile industrial hub, the Free Trade Zone, Ezeagu industrial cluster, Abor, Ajali and surrounding communities,” he said.
Mapwaya said the rehabilitation programme formed part of MainPower’s broader commitment to strengthening electricity distribution infrastructure needed to support industrial growth, business expansion and improved socioeconomic activities across Enugu State.
He, however, said scheduled outages would occur during the five-week construction period to provide a safe working environment and enable contractors to execute the works efficiently.
“The outages will generally take place between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., during which electricity supply to affected customers will be temporarily interrupted.
“MainPower appreciates the operational implications of these outages, particularly for industrial and commercial customers, and appeals for their patience, understanding and cooperation.
“The temporary disruptions are necessary to enable the rehabilitation works to be completed safely and within the planned timeframe,” he said.
The managing director further said the rehabilitation would require the clearance of structures and commercial activities encroaching on statutory powerline rights-of-way.
He said such encroachments would be addressed in accordance with applicable safety requirements and established procedures.
“Customers and members of the public are advised not to erect structures, operate businesses or undertake any activity within powerline rights-of-way.
“These corridors must remain clear to protect lives, facilitate maintenance and ensure the safe operation of electricity infrastructure,” he said.
Mapwaya also appealed to customers and communities within the project corridors to protect the new electrical installations and give contractors maximum cooperation to ensure timely completion of the works.
