… advances embedded mini-grids to improve network reliability in Kano, Katsina, Jigawa
Oredola Adeola
Kano Distribution Company (KEDCO) has allocated 41 prioritized sites to 31 renewable and off-grid companies, including Axxela, PowerGen, DayStar, Elektron, Bagaja, ProServe, Husk, and Westa, as part of phase 1 of its Utility 2.0 concept, aimed to develop 60MW interconnected mini-grids to improve network reliability within its network in Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa.
The embedded generation projects, according to the company, are expected to enhance grid supply, boost energy security, unlock renewable energy potential, and align with the Federal Government’s energy transition plan.
Sani Sani, KEDCO Head, Corporate Communication, made this known in a statement obtained by Advisors Reports on Sunday.
Advisors Reports’ check showed that the project includes network infrastructure upgrades similar to the $2 million Zawaciki Solar Power Plant developed by KEDCO’s core investors – Future Energies Africa FEA, as a pilot for KEDCO Utility 2.0, aimed at reducing losses
KEDCO Head, Corporate Communication stated that the KEDCO Utility 2.0 Project seeks to enhance energy security within the KEDCO network, by unlocking renewable energy potential in the area and aligning with the Federal Government’s energy transition plan.
He added that the KEDCO has advanced in engaging with relevant stakeholders especially the Governments of the tri-state of Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa for input and support toward the success of these projects.
He said, “The 41 Sites were selected across the tri-state for the development of interconnected mini-grids and embedded generation projects to augment grid supply and improve reliability in the network.
“Sites include Tokarawa Industrial Area, Amana and Kwankwasiyya Cities in Kano, Charanchi, Malumfashi, and Barhim Estate in Katsina and Kafin Hausa and Gumel towns, both in Jigawa State,” Sani noted.
According to him, after a comprehensive procurement process, the Pre-qualified Developers such as Axxela, PowerGen, DayStar, Elektron, Bagaja, ProServe, Husk, and Westa.were grouped into two categories – Tier 1 (1MW sites or greater) and Tier 2 (lower than 1MW), and selected proposed sites were duly allocated.
He stated that the pre-qualified Developers are required to register, pay fees and security deposits, complete an initial site assessment, and sign agreements within this month to move to the site within Q3 2024.
Sani said, “An estimated 60MW is being apportioned to Developers that will handle the construction of Solar Power Plants, partner with KEDCO on the upgrade of distribution infrastructure in the communities, and provide metering infrastructure.
” Tokarawa, Challawa, and some of the proposed sites are designed to be Embedded Generation projects modeled as a bilateral contracting agreement between KEDCO and the Developers,” he said.
He noted that utility 2.0 is the program that KEDCO’s core investor – Future Energies Africa is championing to make KEDCO the first utility green in Africa. KEDCO is approaching off-grid as an opportunity and not a threat to its business, by partnering with Developers.
Engr. Hussaini Sadiq, KEDCO’s Chief Strategy Officer, commented on the program, saying “I believe KEDCO has great potential for investment and partnerships, particularly aligning with our host State Governments in reviving agro-industrial and commercial hubs, towards the re-industrialization and socio-economic empowerment of our communities.
“The proposed sites under the KEDCO Utility 2.0 have underserved customers with high unsuppressed load which makes it a great opportunity for all stakeholders.”
Engr. Adamu Gumel, KEDCO’s Chairman, commenting on the project, stated, “We are keen to explore all available solutions towards resolving energy deficiency in our network, thus Utility 2.0 will continue to grow and evolve.
He emphasised that DisCo is already working on phase 2 as 60MW is just a small portion of the energy gap we need to cover. We hope to continue to work with Developers who excel in this first phase into the future.
A breakdown of the companies are
Tokarawa Phase 1 in Tokarawa Industrial Area, Kano has a proposed capacity of 20MW and will be developed by Elektron Energy.
Kura Rice Millers & Karfi Rice Millers in Kura, Kano has a proposed capacity of 2.5MW and will be developed by Bagaja Renewables.
Barhim Estate in Katsina has a proposed capacity of 2-3MW and will be developed by Bagaja Renewables.
Gumel Metropolis in Gumel, Jigawa has a proposed capacity of 1MW and will be developed by Husk Power Limited.
Hadejia Metropolis Commercial / Hadejia Fish Market in Hadejia, Jigawa has a proposed capacity of 0.5-1MW and will be developed by 1634 Energy Limited.
Kazaure Metropolis in Kazaure, Jigawa has a proposed capacity of 2MW and will be developed by PowerGen.
Ringim Metropolis in Ringim, Jigawa has a proposed capacity of 0.5-1MW and will be developed by Paras Energy Ltd.
Ado Bayero Royal City, Estate & Family Home Estate in Darmanawa (Gandun Sarki), Kano has a proposed capacity of 2MW and will be developed by Westa Solar.
Almubok City 1 Estate in Tamburawa, Kano has a proposed capacity of 1MW and will be developed by Daystar Power Ltd.
Al-Mukhab Estate/City, 2 & 3 Western Bypass Estate in Western Bypass, Kano has a proposed capacity of 1MW and will be developed by Hamilton Energy Systems Ltd.
Kano Economic City in Zaria Road Dangora, Kano has a proposed capacity of 1-2MW and will be developed by Trust Synergy Ltd.
KEDCO HQ in Civic Centre, Kano has a proposed capacity of 2MW and will be developed by PowerGen.
Isa Inuwa Dutse Housing Estate, Dammasara in Dammasara, Dutse, Jigawa has a proposed capacity of 1MW and will be developed by Proserve Energy Services.
Bashir Tofa Small Scale in Sharada, Kano has a proposed capacity of 1MW and will be developed by Storm Infrastructure Limited.
Jaba Road Housing Estates in Jaba, Kano has a proposed capacity of 2MW and will be developed by Axxela Limited.
