The West African Power Pool's North Core 330kV Interconnection Project has achieved 75% overall completion, according to the 8th joint supervision mission of the project's financing partners. The project connects Nigeria, Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Niger Republic, and Togo, and its progress reflects years of dedicated effort by engineers, technicians, and project personnel. The project's main target is to complete outstanding construction works and ensure reliable electricity infrastructure.
Sule Abdulaziz, Chairman of the WAPP Executive Board and Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, emphasized the need for sustained cooperation and timely decision-making among stakeholders. He noted that the progress recorded so far demonstrates the commitment of participating governments and development partners. The project's completion is expected to strengthen regional electricity interconnection and facilitate cross-border power trade.
The project, launched in 2019, aims to enhance electricity supply security and support the development of the regional electricity market. Abdoulaye Dia, Secretary General of the Pool, highlighted the project's strategic importance for regional electricity integration. However, the project has faced challenges such as insecurity, flooding, and the COVID-19 pandemic, which have contributed to delays and increased costs.
Despite these challenges, the project is expected to promote a more integrated and reliable West African electricity market. The participants in the joint supervision mission reviewed progress, examined outstanding implementation challenges, and explored measures to accelerate completion of the remaining works. The project's completion will also enhance cooperation among participating countries.
The North Core 330kV Interconnection Project is a significant step towards achieving regional electricity integration in West Africa. The project's success will depend on the continued commitment and cooperation of all stakeholders. The WAPP Executive Board and financing partners are working together to ensure the project's timely completion.
The project's benefits extend beyond the participating countries, as a more integrated and reliable regional electricity market will have a positive impact on the entire West African region. The project's completion will also create opportunities for cross-border power trade and economic growth. The WAPP project is a key initiative in the region's efforts to enhance energy security and cooperation.
As the project nears completion, stakeholders are working together to address the remaining challenges and ensure its successful implementation. The project's success will be a significant achievement for the region, demonstrating the power of cooperation and collaboration in achieving common goals. The WAPP project is an important step towards a more integrated and reliable West African electricity market.
Key points
- The project aims to strengthen regional electricity interconnection and facilitate cross-border power trade among participating countries.
