By Patience Chat Moses
Voltage fluctuation is what Nigerians refer to as “high or low current”. It is a significant issue affecting millions of homes and businesses. It occurs when the supply voltage to electrical devices rises or falls outside the specified range, which can lead to power surges, electrical fires, and damage to appliances. Voltage fluctuations occur when there is a sudden increase or decrease in the load on the national grid or when generators and transformers are overloaded. In many cases, the grid is old, poorly maintained, or not properly synchronised with power stations, causing unstable supply.
Causes of Voltage Fluctuations
Inadequate infrastructure tops the list of these causes. The Nigerian electricity grid is outdated, with over-reliance on ageing power stations and transmission lines that are not capable of handling increased demand or fluctuations in power. Also, a significant portion of Nigeria’s power generation relies on gas. Gas shortages or pipeline vandalism disrupt the power supply, leading to fluctuations.
Transmission and Distribution Challenges also contribute to this. The transmission and distribution network, managed by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and Distribution Companies (DISCOs), is often in disrepair, with technical losses and inadequate transformer capacity contributing to fluctuations. Both domestic and commercial consumers tend to overload their power supply due to increasing electrical devices, while utilities fail to scale up infrastructure accordingly.
Impact of Voltage Fluctuation
Frequent voltage fluctuations burn out sensitive electronic components in household appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners, televisions, and computers. For instance, a 2019 report from the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) in Nigeria highlighted how voltage surges were responsible for destroying thousands of devices across the country annually. One Mr Okudili in Life Camp, Abuja, said he has lost count of the number of phone chargers and rechargeable lamps damaged in his home and environs.
Surges in voltage can lead to electrical fires. In 2020, a tragic incident in Lagos saw a power surge cause an electrical fire, which resulted in significant property damage. According to the Nigerian Fire Service, electrical fires, many caused by faulty wiring and voltage surges, account for over 30% of fire outbreaks in the country. Voltage fluctuations can cause electrical shocks, leading to injuries or even death. In 2021, an electrical fault caused by fluctuating voltage in a commercial building in Kano led to the death of two people and left several others injured.
Safety Measures for Nigerians
The use of surge protectors for electrical appliances, especially sensitive devices like computers, TVs, and refrigerators should be employed. Surge protectors help absorb power spikes and prevent them from reaching electrical devices. Voltage regulators are crucial for stabilising fluctuating voltages and protecting appliances. Installing them on devices prone to damage from irregular voltage can save one from costly repairs or replacements.
Experts also advise investing in inverters and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) to ensure that electronics are protected during power surges. They also help in maintaining power supply during outages, reducing the impact of fluctuations. Don’t overload electrical outlets. This can lead to overheating and potentially cause a fire. Use an electrician to install additional outlets or circuits if needed.
Public awareness about voltage fluctuation risks and safety measures is essential. Nigerians should be educated on the importance of using quality appliances. The sensitisation should also cover laws and policies around this issue. The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) is responsible for regulating the electricity sector in Nigeria. They set standards for electricity supply, including voltage levels. If fluctuations lead to damage, consumers can file complaints with NERC. The Nigerian Consumer Protection Council (CPC) is tasked with safeguarding consumers from unfair practices. If damage occurs due to voltage fluctuations, consumers may seek redress or compensation for losses.
The need to subscribe to insurance coverage or policies is also important so that users can protect their appliances from damage caused by power surges and fluctuations. Some insurance policies specifically cover electrical appliance damage due to voltage issues and houses in case of a fire outbreak.