TCN improves bulk power to Northern Nigeria, reconductors power lines in Kano with 12- month completion date

By Clem Ezeolisah 

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

The project involves upgrading the ageing Kumbotso-Dakata 132kV Double-Circuit Transmission Line, which has been a major bottleneck affecting supply to key industrial hubs like the Dakata Industrial Zone and the upcoming Walalambe Transmission Substation.

According to the GM Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, the project, expected to be completed in 12 months, includes critical upgrades such as replacing obsolete ACSR dog conductors with high-capacity ACCC-Silvassa conductors, installing Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) for enhanced communication and monitoring, and deploying durable composite polymer insulators suited for harsh environmental conditions.

TCN's General Manager, Transmission Services, Engr. A.I. Sharifai said, “it's not just infrastructure renewal but about restoring confidence in the transmission network and empowering industries and communities through reliable electricity.

“This project is 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, and the upgrade of transmission lines in Port Harcourt, aimed at increasing line capacity and reducing power interruptions.

The TCN has also completed 22 power transmission projects and upgrades since 2020, including delivering four units of 132 kilovolts transmission substations and upgrading 15 existing substations with higher capacity transformers and equipment.