Bayelsa Gas Turbine Installation Reaches 85% Completion

Elebele_ The installation of 60 megawatts of gas turbines in Bayelsa State is now 85% complete, as confirmed by Mr. Wisdom Ikuli, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Media and Public Affairs.

The Bayelsa State Government had approved the purchase of the turbines on January 30, 2025, with the aim of improving electricity supply across the state. This decision was made during the 151st State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Yenagoa, as reported by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Daniel Alabrah.

Ikuli, who led a tour of the site for journalists on Wednesday, stated that once completed, the 24-hour uninterrupted electricity supply would be a game-changer for businesses in Bayelsa, potentially attracting companies from neighboring states.

Bayelsa has acquired eight gas turbines in total, with six units already received. The remaining two turbines are on their way, and two transformers, switch gears, and other essential components have also been installed. Efforts are ramping up to ensure the December 2025 deadline set by Governor Douye Diri for the commencement of full electricity supply is met.

Ikuli explained, “By January this year, this area was swampy and overgrown with vegetation. But in the span of just a few months, significant progress has been made. The promise of 24-hour electricity by the end of this year is becoming a reality. With this power supply, Bayelsa will experience economic growth, as businesses will be drawn to the state, and the hospitality sector will thrive.”

He also expressed gratitude towards Governor Douye Diri, calling him the “miracle governor” who is bringing light to Bayelsa. “In the next few months, we will have electricity, and this project will not just be talk. It will be real,” he added.

Ikuli responded to questions about electricity costs by reminding that power is not free anywhere in the country. “Even at the highest levels, people pay for electricity. The gas used for the turbines has to be purchased, and transforming it into electricity requires significant investment. So, for Bayelsans, the cost will be minimal compared to the prices we pay for fuel, diesel, and solar panels.”

Steve Bubagha, Director of Operations at Bayelsa Electricity Company Limited, further affirmed that the gas turbine installation was progressing smoothly. “We are about to properly position the turbines and begin installing accessories,” Bubagha said. “Once the installation is complete, we will move on to pre-commissioning. We are about 95% done with the electrical reticulation of the system, and we expect to begin turbine installation soon.”

Bubagha also assured that once the project is finished, metering will be affordable for all residents. He reiterated the governor’s commitment to ensuring the entire process, from installation to metering, will be completed efficiently, allowing Bayelsans to enjoy uninterrupted electricity.

With this crucial infrastructure project on track, the people of Bayelsa State are eagerly anticipating the positive changes that consistent power supply will bring to their homes and businesses.