The Delta State Government has announced plans to generate about 120 megawatts of electricity through a partnership with Sapele Plant as part of efforts to improve power supply in the State.
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting held at the Government Annex, Ejedjeba, Warri South Local Government Area.
Aniagwu said the partnership would utilise turbines installed or acquired by previous administrations, following a feasibility assessment of the project.
He explained that the proposed generation capacity would be injected into the national grid to improve electricity supply for consumers in Delta State.
The commissioner, however, noted that effective electricity supply requires more than power generation, stressing the importance of transmission and distribution infrastructure in delivering electricity to homes and businesses.
He said the government is also addressing challenges affecting electricity supply in the Issele-Uku and Kwale corridors, including plans to extend electricity infrastructure through Abraka and provide a 33KV line through the Ughelli corridor.
Aniagwu identified vandalism of electricity infrastructure, including conductors and cables, as one of the major challenges undermining efforts to improve power supply in some communities.
He said previous attempts to address the electricity challenges had been affected by the destruction of infrastructure, adding that the government is working towards a more sustainable solution.
The commissioner also explained that the sharing of electricity infrastructure by communities in different local government areas, including the use of common transformers and distribution lines, contributed to some of the challenges.
He said the administration is determined to improve electricity supply as part of its broader development agenda, noting that reliable power is necessary to support businesses, industries and economic activities across the State.