Pipeline Vandalism Causes 504MW Alaoji GenCo to Shut Down

The reduced gas supply to the 504 megawatts (MW) Alaoji NIPP power plant in Aba, Abia State has caused the plant to shut down.

The low gas supply, according to the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), was caused by pipeline vandalism of gas lines belonging to the TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited.

The gas company on Monday declared a Force Majeure event after its pipelines were vandalised on January 7, 2022.

In a letter to the NDPHC, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited wrote, “The Management of Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) Limited hereby regrets to announce the shutdown of 504MW Alaoji Power Plant on January 7, 2022.

“NOPL pipeline was vandalised on 7th January 2022 at KP41 Alaoma Etche Cluster.

“The Line Block Valve at KP38 was closed to isolate the sabotage point and depressurization of the line, this will affect gas supply to Alaoji (Power Plant) until further notice.”

“Gas supply to Alaoji Power Plant”, TotalEnergies said, has been “suspended due to this unfortunate event”.

“Preliminary investigation to determine the extent of the damage is ongoing, and repair works shall commence as soon as feasible,” the company added.