Elimination of Frequent Electric Power Interruption Due to Lightning Discharge in Nigeria

Abstract

The problems facing the Power Holding Company of Nigeria PLC (PHCN) which was formerly called the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA), are numerous to the extent that every power electric engineer both in the industrial sector and in academic is being challenged to proffer possible solutions. In an attempt, to combat some of these problems, this paper is therefore focused on a problem, affecting frequent power interruption to consumers during rainy season by PHCN. A research carried out before now ascertained that more than 500 hours were lost annually on power interruptions due to lightning discharge in various substations throughout the country during rainy season. Therefore, this paper has suggested the use of double lightning arresters instead of one, for the protection of industrial and domestic electrical installation work. It recommended the use of Thyrite or Oriaghe low voltage lightning arrester to prospective power consumers for domestic application. Also, for the high voltage protection it recommended the use of the high voltage Thyrite lightning arrester for lightning discharge protection of transformers and switch gears, used by PHCN.

Elimination of Frequent Electric Power Interruption Due to Lightning Discharge in Nigeria

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