From David Onuoja, Abuja
The Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), has officially handed over the rehabilitated Gbarain Power Plant, to a joint venture, which comprises of TILT Energy Limited and Schneider Electric as a replacement of the plant’s burnt Power Control Module (PCM), marking a significant milestone in efforts to restore the 225MW facility.
Speaking during the handover ceremony in Bayelsa, Bayelsa State, the NDPHC’s General Manager and the Generation Projects, Engr. Ginsau Idris, said the PCM was extensively damaged by fire, making its replacement imperative.
He however, expressed confidence in the contractors, noting that all parties clearly understood their responsibilities and were committed to deliver the project successfully and within the schedule.
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NDPHC’s Executive Director, Generation, Engr. Abdullahi Kassim, also recalled that the PCM was destroyed by fire in November 2020, just months before the plant was due for commissioning, describing the incident as a major setback to the project.
Kassim commended the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Jennifer Adighije, for championing the revival of the project.
He disclosed that complementary infrastructure, including access roads and support buildings, is under construction, describing the Gbarain Power Plant as a strategic asset because of its proximity to gas supply.
Responding, the Managing Director of TILT Energy Limited, Mr. Deji Awodeji, assured stakeholders that the joint venture would complete the rehabilitation within, and possibly ahead of, the 12-month project timeline without compromising quality.
He reaffirmed the partners’ commitment to restoring the plant to operation as quick as possible.
Earlier in her remarks, the Managing Director/CEO of NDPHC, Engr. Jennifer Adighije, said the project was prioritised after the Gbarain Power Plant was identified as a “low-hanging fruit” capable of delivering a quick boost to electricity generation.
She explained that NDPHC secured the necessary approvals and funding in record time and expressed confidence in the contractors’ capacity to execute the project successfully.
According to her, replacing the burnt PCM will pave way for the recommissioning of the 225MW power plant, thereby strengthening electricity supply and supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The ceremony concluded with an inspection of ongoing works at the project site by NDPHC management, contractors and other stakeholders.
