Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) is set to commission its newly constructed 35km, 33kV overhead power line from Bichi Transmission Station to Dawanau International Grain Market, following a successful test run.
The N1.1 billion project, comprising two substations, 500KVA 33/.415 transformers, and low-tension (LT) lines, aims to serve Africa’s largest grain hub, fostering economic growth in Kano State and Nigeria.
The project is part of focused investments driven by KEDCO’s core investor, Future Energies Africa (FEA), in collaboration with the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and state governments in Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa.
According to KEDCO’s Acting Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Abubakar Shuaibu Jimeta, the project recognizes the critical role of Dawanau Market in agricultural export, food security, and regional socio-economic development.
“Previously limping on 4 hours of daily power, we will now supply 20+ hours, increasing electricity capacity by 10MW, attracting 400+ medium and large-scale agro-processing plants, and reducing operating costs by 80% for sustainable growth,” Dr. Jimeta said.
He noted that the project complements the Kano State Government’s market standardization program, which includes a recent partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) and Lives and Livelihood Fund (LLF) to invest N628 million in infrastructure upgrades.
KEDCO Director Alh. Habib Ahmed Daura thanked Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his emphasis on bringing Dawanau Market up to benchmark standards.
He appreciated the governor’s team’s support, particularly from the Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Dr. Gaddafi Sani Shehu, and the Managing Director of Kano State Rural Electricity Board, Engr. Sani Bala.
KEDCO Chairman Engr. Adamu Ibrahim Gumel stated that the investment addresses significant constraints on the industrial cluster’s growth potential and will boost KEDCO’s energy off-take, leading to equivalent revenue growth. “With the project completed, tested, and set for commissioning, the market is poised to experience improved power quality and availability,” he said.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
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