The Federal Government announced that testing has commenced on the Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant, a significant project capable of generating 700 megawatts of electricity. Situated in Niger State, Nigeria, this $1.3 billion endeavor has been connected to the national grid, debunking claims suggesting otherwise.
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, confirmed these developments, highlighting the completion of the facility and its concession process. Mainstream Energy Limited, the concessionaire, is currently overseeing operations, with the technical handover from Chinese consultants underway.
The testing phase, initiated recently, marks the beginning of power generation, expected to last one to two weeks before full-scale production commences. The Zungeru power plant, positioned along the Kaduna River, is poised to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s power generation, meeting approximately 10% of the nation’s energy demands annually. Additionally, the plant offers flood control, irrigation, and fish breeding capabilities.
Collaborating with Chinese firms, Sinohydro Corporation Limited and China National Electric Engineering Company, underscores the international partnerships driving this endeavor. As testing progresses and operational procedures are finalized, the Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant stands as a beacon of progress in Nigeria’s energy landscape, poised to catalyze economic development and bolster the nation’s power infrastructure.
