The hydropower business of GE Vernova, a global energy company, has announced the commissioning of the four 175MW Francis hydropower turbines and generators at the Zungeru project, located on the Kaduna River in Nigeria
The 700MW project is the second largest hydropower plant in Nigeria and is expected to meet around 10% of the country’s total domestic electricity requirements while also helping to control flooding and supporting irrigation efforts in the region.
The development of the project is part of an effort to exploit the vast hydropower potential of the country – the International Hydropower Association estimates this at more than 14GW.
GE Vernova was selected by the engineering, procurement, and construction company China National Electrical Equipment Corporation (CNEEC) to design, supply, supervise installation and commission the four hydropower units.
Brian Selby, hydropower Asia Leader, GE Vernova, remarked, “Nigeria is gifted with large rivers and natural falls that create opportunities for hydropower development. As the Government of Nigeria continues to pursue the expansion of generation capacity and extend the capability of its power grid, we are happy to help take advantage of the country’s water reserves to meet its increasing demand for sustainable, reliable, and efficient power.
“This project will have a wide-reaching impact on the country’s energy landscape. The Zungeru project received investment support from Export-Import Bank (Exim Bank) of China and we are pleased to see it come to life.”
