Enugu to build 660MW coal-fired power plant

The Enugu State Government has announced plans to construct a 660-megawatt coal-fired power plant as part of efforts to improve electricity supply and drive industrial growth.

Governor Peter Mbah disclosed this on Wednesday at the Government House in Enugu while receiving a delegation from the Organised Private Sector Nigeria (OPSN).

According to the governor, construction of the plant is scheduled to commence in July, with a projected completion timeline of 24 months.

Mbah said the initiative follows reforms that now allow states to participate in electricity generation, transmission, and distribution, noting that Enugu was among the first to establish a subnational electricity market after recent constitutional and legislative amendments.

“We are moving beyond setting up an electricity market to actually generating power locally,” he said, adding that the project would ensure reliable and affordable electricity for both residents and businesses.

He expressed confidence that, upon completion, the plant would significantly reduce power outages in the state and position Enugu as a hub for investment.

Addressing environmental concerns, Mbah noted that Enugu’s coal has relatively low sulphur content and high energy value, making it suitable for power generation.

He added that the project followed about two years of feasibility studies and the acquisition of coal resources to ensure steady supply to the plant.

The governor also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the state’s investment climate, including enhanced security, infrastructure development, a one-stop investment centre, and partnerships in technology and innovation.

Earlier, the Chairman of the South-East Zone of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Ugochukwu Chime, who led the OPSN delegation, commended the administration’s policies, citing improvements in infrastructure, transportation, and business conditions.

Other stakeholders, including representatives of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA), also praised the government’s efforts in boosting economic activities and attracting investment to the state.

The OPSN delegation used the visit to endorse Mbah for a second term and presented locally made products to the governor.