Frequent power outages in Imo State have been primarily attributed to the state’s reliance on a single, outdated 132KV transmission line originating from Alooji in Abia State and terminating in Owerri.
This infrastructure, insufficient to meet the growing electricity demands of the state, has hindered economic and social development.
According to revelations made by Special Adviser to Governor Hope Uzodimma on Public Enlightenment, Prince Eze Ugochukwu, this challenge has necessitated a bold response from the government to overhaul and modernize the state’s power supply system.
“This outdated infrastructure has been a major bottleneck, limiting electricity distribution across Imo State. For decades, the state has been heavily reliant on a single power line, which is clearly inadequate for our growing demands,” said Ugochukwu.
According to him, the governor’s strategic plan focuses on diversifying power sources and modernizing electricity infrastructure to end decades of over-reliance on a single power line.
Central to this initiative is the expansion of 132KV power lines to key towns like Orlu, Okigwe, Owerri, and Mbaise. This expansion, he noted, is designed to distribute power more equitably across the state while reducing pressure on existing facilities.
“The expansion of the 132KV power lines is critical for providing more equitable power distribution and relieving pressure on the existing grid. This move will ensure that more communities have access to stable electricity,” Ugochukwu noted.
He further revealed that the construction of two major 330KV transmission lines—one from Alooji and the other from Egbema—will dramatically increase power capacity. These projects are expected to provide more stable electricity, particularly in densely populated areas like Owerri and its environs.
“Modern substations are also a crucial component of the plan. A 60MVA substation is being constructed in Okigwe to replace facilities that were previously vandalized, while Obinze now benefits from a 63MVA substation installed through the Presidential Power Initiative. The latter has already added nearly 50MW to the state’s power grid, a significant milestone in the quest for energy stability.
“A key aspect of this plan is the construction and upgrading of substations. These projects will replace vandalized infrastructure and ensure that more power is injected into the grid, benefiting communities across the state,” Ugochukwu explained.
He noted that the ambitious plan also includes a pilot project in New Owerri, set to commence in May 2025, stressing that the initiative involves the installation of a 15-kilometer power line, a new substation, and local distribution networks.
According to him, construction of a 50-kilometer power line connecting Owerri and Orlu is underway, along with specialized infrastructure to power Omuma Polytechnic.
“The New Owerri pilot project is a glimpse into the future of power supply in Imo State. It’s a critical step toward achieving our long-term goal of energy stability and modernization,” said Ugochukwu.
He noted that a standout feature of the administration’s plan is the nearing completion of the Egbema 380MW gas power plant. “This project is seen as a game-changer for the state, leveraging local gas resources to provide a significant boost to electricity generation” he stated.
According to him, once operational, the plant is expected to not only meet local demands but also position Imo State as a regional leader in energy production.
“These efforts, especially the Egbema gas plant, will revolutionize power supply in Imo State. We are leveraging our local resources to generate electricity that will transform lives and businesses,” Ugochukwu added.
He further explained that these projects hold substantial benefits for Imo residents.
“Households will enjoy reduced reliance on generators and more reliable power for everyday activities. Businesses, too, stand to benefit, with lower operational costs and improved productivity. Schools and healthcare facilities will see improvements in service delivery, thanks to uninterrupted electricity,” he wrote.
