Nigeria’s TCN Connects Bauchi Substation

June 11, 2025

Key Figures & Findings: The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has launched a critical grid infrastructure upgrade with the construction of a turn-in-turn-out (TITO) connection along the 330 kV Jos–Bauchi–Gombe transmission line. This development aims to fully integrate the newly built Bauchi 330 kV transmission substation into the national grid. According to TCN spokesperson Ndidi Mbah, the project, which began on June 10 and is scheduled for completion by June 14, forms part of TCN’s broader strategy to enhance grid reliability and redundancy. TCN also confirmed the installation of a new transmission tower to support this connection, reinforcing its nationwide network expansion plan.

Insights: The upgrade will temporarily reduce bulk electricity supply to customers served by the Jos and Yola DisCos across Bauchi, Gombe, Ashaka, Savannah, Damaturu/Potiskum, and Biu. Full outages are anticipated in Yola and Jalingo during the five-day construction window. The new setup will allow mutual backup between Bauchi and Gombe substations and enable Jos to supply Bauchi directly via a 132 kV line when the 330 kV route is down.

Future Implications: If completed on schedule, this connection could significantly reduce downtime across northeastern Nigeria and allow more agile emergency responses and network maintenance. Full operational benefits of the improved redundancy model could be realized by Q3 2025.