MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited (MEDL) has commenced a ₦3.5 billion network rehabilitation and upgrade programme aimed at improving electricity supply, strengthening distribution infrastructure and supporting industrial activity across parts of Enugu State.
The Managing Director of MainPower, Dr Ernest Mupwaya, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Enugu on Thursday, August 27, 2026, explaining that the projects were being executed under the Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP), a Federal Government initiative supported by the World Bank.
Mupwaya said the programme was designed to strengthen Nigeria’s electricity distribution sector through metering, rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, reduction of technical and commercial losses and improved service delivery.
He said the first phase would cover the rehabilitation and upgrading of the 9th Mile Injection Substation, 9th Mile Industrial Feeder and Coca-Cola 33kV Feeder.
“It will also cover installation of seven new 500 kVA, 11/0.415 kV distribution transformers; rehabilitation of 10 existing 500 kVA distribution transformers; and provision of 11 kV switchgear to improve system protection, control and operational flexibility.
“The works are expected to be completed within five weeks. Contractors will work daily, including weekends, to ensure timely delivery,” he said.
Coca-Cola Feeder to Get Major Upgrade
Mupwaya identified the upgrade of the approximately 28-kilometre Coca-Cola 33kV line from the Oji River Transmission Station to the 9th Mile Injection Substation as a major component of the project.
He said the existing 50mm² aluminium conductor single circuit would be replaced with a 150mm² Aluminium Conductor Steel Reinforced (ACSR) double circuit.
“The upgraded line will have a combined design thermal transfer capability of up to 36MW, subject to prevailing system conditions, voltage regulation and other operational requirements.
“The additional capacity will strengthen electricity supply to the 9th Mile industrial axis and support existing and prospective industrial customers,” he said.
According to the MainPower chief executive, beneficiaries of the upgrade would include Sapphire, 7-Up, Honest Material, Coca-Cola, Wisdo, Enugu Water Works and other customers supplied through the 11kV industrial feeder.
He added that the project would also relieve pressure on the Kingsway 2 Line, which supplies Ogui and the Hilltop axis, thereby improving network flexibility and reliability in the areas.
9th Mile Feeder to Receive Capacity Boost
On the 9th Mile Power Corridor, Mupwaya said the existing undersized 70mm² aluminium conductor on the 9th Mile 11kV industrial feeder would be replaced with a 150mm² aluminium conductor from the injection substation.
“This upgrade will address existing capacity constraints, reduce technical losses, improve voltage profiles and create additional capacity to accommodate growing industrial and commercial demands.
“Upon completion, the project is expected to significantly improve electricity supply to customers in Udi and Ezeagu Local Government Areas, including: 9th Mile industrial hub; the Free Trade Zone; Ezeagu industrial cluster; Abor; Ajali; and surrounding communities,” he said.
Mupwaya said the rehabilitation programme was part of MainPower’s broader strategy to strengthen electricity distribution infrastructure and provide the capacity required to drive industrial growth, business expansion and socioeconomic development across Enugu State.
MainPower Announces Five-Week Outages
The company, however, warned that customers within the affected areas should expect temporary electricity outages during the construction period.
Mupwaya explained that the outages were necessary to create a safe working environment and facilitate the efficient execution of the rehabilitation works.
“The outages will generally take place between 8a.m. and 2p.m., during which electricity supply to affected customers will be temporarily interrupted.
“MainPower appreciates the operational implications of these outages, particularly for industrial and commercial customers, and appeals for their patience, understanding and cooperation.
“The temporary disruptions are necessary to enable the rehabilitation works to be completed safely and within the planned timeframe,” he said.
Company Warns Against Encroachment
The MainPower managing director also disclosed that the rehabilitation exercise would require the clearance of structures and commercial activities encroaching on statutory powerline rights-of-way.
He said such encroachments would be addressed in line with applicable safety requirements and established procedures.
“Customers and members of the public are advised not to erect structures, operate businesses or undertake any activity within powerline rights-of-way.
“These corridors must remain clear to protect lives, facilitate maintenance and ensure the safe operation of electricity infrastructure,” he said.
Mupwaya appealed to customers and communities along the project corridors to protect the newly installed electrical infrastructure and give contractors the necessary cooperation to ensure the projects are completed within the scheduled five-week timeframe.
