The Management of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) on Sunday announced that the National Grid experienced a system collapse due to high voltage.

According to a statement, the General Manager Public Affairs, Mrs Ndidi Mbah, stated that the high voltage occurred following a massive drop of load by the electricity distribution companies.

She disclosed that the high voltage also caused a fire incident in the 75MXreactor in the Benin Substation, Sapele Road in Benin City, Edo State.

“The massive load drop led to high voltage in the system, which shattered the lightning arrester in close proximity to the 75MX Reactor in Benin Substation.

“The shattered lightning arrester porcelain hit the reactor bushing causing further explosion on the reactor resulting in a fire outbreak.

“Restoration of the Grid commenced immediately and as at 1.30pm, bulk power supply to most parts of the nation had been restored”, the statement reads.

TCN has also begun the transportation of another reactor to Benin City to replace the burnt reactor.

“Management would also ensure a review of the entire protection and earthing system nationwide. This is done in addition to the overall upgrading of the system through the TREP program being financed by multi-lateral donors

“The installation of 3no reactors on the Ikot- Ekpene- Ugwuaji –Jos line has reached an advance stage. It is expected that once these three reactors are installed and commissioned, the grid would be further stabilized”, the statement added.