FG To Improve Power From 3.5GW

In a bid to ensure the optimal ultilisation of gas in the country, the federal government has unveiled plans to grow the nation’s generating capacity from 3.5GW to 13GW by 2013.

The Group Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Engr Austen Oniwon made the disclosure while presenting a paper titled: “Nigeira Oil And Gas Industry: Strategies For Sustainable Development” at the just concluded Port Harcourt International Oil and Gas (PHIOG) Conference and Exhibition in Port Harcourt.

The NNPC boss who was represented by Engr. Tony Ogbuigwe said government is to invest a total of $7 billion in the Independent Power Projects and increase domestic gas demand in the country.

Also, among the roadmap to guarantee stable  power supply are plans to mitigate the manufacturing sector’s power difficulties and reduce flaring to the barest minimum in the long run.

According to him, in addition to the 500Mega Watts  operational plants at Geregu, Omotosho and 950 Mega Watts at okapi and Afam, 15000 Mega Watts will be generated  from four Power Holding Company of Nigeria Power Plants and 2900Mega Watts from five Joint Venture Independent Power Projects culminating to a total of 6900Mega Watts to be added to the national grid.

Investigation reveal that efficient exploitation of natural resources is critical to the economic growth of this nation as it will not only generate revenue, but will create employment for the nation’s teeming youths.

Specifically, gas due to its unique attributes can be a driver of the nation’s development. When harnessed effectively, it can lead to rapid growth and Nigeria is estimated to have a proven gas reserve of about 187tcf placing it the 7th World’s Largestr Gas Reserve.

Vivian-Peace Nwinaene