Bayelsa govt facilities to get uninterrupted power supply

….signs Power Purchase Agreement with NCDMB

Solomon Ezeme

As part of efforts to ensure uninterrupted power supply to its facilities, the Bayelsa State Government on Wednesday signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
The program will see provision of electricity from the 10 megawatts gas-fired independent power plants constructed by the NCDMB in conjunction with the Nigerian Agip Oil Company.

According to the agreement, the plant will supply interrupted power to key facilities of the state which would be paid for by the government as specified in the agreement.

The plant will also power the Nigerian Content Tower (NCT) and the Oil and Gas Park, in Ogbia Local Government Area of the state.

President Muhammadu Buhari had on August 14, 2020, commissioned
the independent power plant and the 17-storey Nigerian Content Tower (NCT) .

The signing ceremony was witnessed by state governor, Senator Douye Diri, the state Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Biriyai Dambo, and Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Simbi Kesiye Wabote.

Speaking at the event held in Yenagoa, the state capital, the NCDMB boss said the terms and conditions of the agreement will ensure stability of operations at the plant.

“The power supply is not free as all users including NCDMB are expected to make pre-payment deposit for their power requirements just as required by our gas suppliers.

“We were required to make up to six months deposit with the Gas Aggregation Company Nigeria before we got gas supply to the power plant. We believe there will be no default from any party that will trigger unpleasant outcome in the sustainability of the power plant operations,” he said.

He expressed optimism in the partnership between both parties to bring about a reliable power supply to the entire state, considering the abundant gas resources available within its territory.

Governor Douye Diri, while commending the Board, promised that his administration is determined to utilize the abundant resources of the state for the benefit of the people.