NDPHC Cancels Rockson Engineering’s Transmission Project Contract
Only maximum demand consumers are exempted from estimated billing, says NERC
Chineme Okafor
The Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) Limited has stripped one of its contractors, Rockson Engineering, of the contract for the construction of a critical power transmission line in the eastern electricity supply loop, citing repeated failure by the firm to fulfill the terms of its engagement for the job.
According to a status report on NDPHC’s transmission projects which its Managing Director, Mr. Chiedu Ugbo, presented at the 16th edition of the monthly power sector operators’ meeting which was held at one of NDPHC’s transmission stations in Ugwuaji, Enugu State, the contract for the construction of 330kV double circuit transmission line from Ihiala to Nnewi, both in Anambra State was retrieved from Rockson and subsequently handed over to another company named North China Power to now execute.
The report was obtained by THISDAY yesterday in Abuja
Although Rockson has been one of NDPHC’s major Engineering, Procurements, and Construction (EPC) contractors, having been engaged by it for the construction of its Egbema; Alaoji; Gbarain Ubie; and Omoku gas power plants, as well as several transmission projects under the National Integrated Power Projects (NIPPs) framework, the firm has however reportedly failed to meet its project delivery timelines.
In most cases, reports alleged that it had relied heavily on political influences to keep its contracts with the NDPHC, a development insiders in the NDPHC and ministry of power said had affected the delivery of some of the NIPP projects.
Ugbo however said in the status report on the construction of the 330kV double circuit transmission line from Ihiala sub-station to Nnewi, that: “This project was originally contracted to Rockson Engineering. Works sub-contracted to North China Power due to Rockson’s inability to perform.
“The project was hitherto delayed by Rockson Engineering’s failure to provide the procured materials to North China. Work has now recommenced on the project,” he added.