Delta Partners Sapele Power to Add 120MW to National Grid
Delta State Government has strengthened its partnership with Sapele Power Plc in a strategic move to inject an additional 120 megawatts of electricity into the national grid, as part of efforts to deepen energy supply and boost industrial growth.
The State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this on Wednesday during a visit by the State Economic Management Team to the Sapele Power Plant in Ogorode, Sapele Local Government Area. He said the collaboration underscores Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to leveraging the new constitutional provision that grants states greater authority over electricity generation and distribution.
Aniagwu explained that the additional capacity would come from two 60-megawatt Rolls-Royce Trent 60 generating turbines currently being refurbished and installed at the plant. According to him, the turbines were previously acquired by the state but left idle in Oghareki, Ethiope West Local Government Area, for years before the present administration opted to integrate them into Sapele Power’s operations.
He noted that instead of disposing of the equipment as scrap for about ₦3 billion, the government chose a long-term investment strategy that would generate sustainable revenue and expand electricity supply. The decision, he said, followed feasibility studies conducted in collaboration with the Delta State Investment Development Agency (DIDA), the Ministry of Energy, and the Office of the Chief Economic Adviser.
Commissioner for Energy, Engr. Michael Anoka, described the development as a significant milestone in meeting the state’s energy demands. He expressed optimism that the additional 120 megawatts, when fully operational, would complement the plant’s existing capacity of over 1,020 megawatts and support industrial expansion across the state.
Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor, Dr. Barry Gbe, who led the delegation, said the initiative aligns with the new electricity law, which enables states to play more active roles in power generation and distribution. He revealed that the state has set up a committee, in collaboration with consultants, to liberalise the electricity market and attract more players in generation, distribution, and metering.
Chairman of DIDA, Chief Lucky Oghene-Omoru, commended Sapele Power Plc for embracing indigenous technology and job creation, noting that the partnership has transformed a dormant asset into a productive investment.
In his remarks, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Sapele Power Plc, Mr. Valentine Ashinze, pledged the company’s continued support for the state government’s drive to position Delta as a leading industrial hub through improved energy infrastructure.
