By CONSTANCE ATHEKAME

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) says it has inaugurated a line reconductoring project in Kano to improve power transmission reliability across Northern Nigeria.

Mrs Ndidi Mbah, General Manager, Public Affairs, TCN, said this in a statement in Abuja on Saturday.

Mbah said that the project involves upgrading of the ageing Kumbotso-Dakata 132 Kilo Volt (KV) Double-Circuit transmission line.

According to her, this has been a major bottleneck affecting supply to key industrial hubs like the Dakata industrial zone and the upcoming Walalambe transmission substation.

“The project includes critical upgrades such as replacing Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced (ACSR) dog conductors with high-capacity Aluminum Conductor Composite Core (ACCC), Silvassa conductors, installing Optical Ground Wire (OPGW).

“It for enhanced communication and monitoring, and deploying durable composite polymer insulators suited for harsh environmental conditions,” she said.

Mbah added that the project was expected to be completed within 12 months.

According to her, TCN’s General Manager, Transmission Services, Ali Sharifai emphasised the project’s importance, stating that it’s not just infrastructure renewal but about restoring confidence in the transmission network.

He said that the project would also empower industries and communities through reliable electricity.

According to Sharifai, the project was part of TCN’s efforts to enhance power infrastructure and economic development in the region.

“Similar projects include the reconductoring of the Kankia-Katsina 132kV transmission line, expected to last between five and six weeks.

“Also the upgrade of transmission lines in Port Harcourt is aimed at increasing line capacity and reducing power interruptions,” he said.

According to him, TCN has also completed 22 power transmission projects and upgrades since 2020.

He said these includes delivering four units of 132kv transmission substations and upgrading 15 existing substations with higher capacity transformers and equipment.

“TCN is committed to contributing its quota to the country’s economic and social development through impactful transmission and infrastructural development,” he said. (NAN)