Bayelsa State in South West Nigeria depends on its own independently generated electricity, which uses the abundant local gas reserves. This responsibility is now carried by The Bayelsa State Electricity Board.

By 2004, the Board had become concerned that the gas turbines were no longer reliable. However, it considered the cost of full package replacement to be prohibitive.

Proven solution providers

Whilst work could be carried out to overhaul the SK30 power turbine and the Olympus gas generator it was not possible to upgrade their 17-year-old control systems. The problem called for a partner capable of retrofitting modern control systems to the gas turbines. And this involved overcoming the logistical problems of getting tools and test equipment to the remote site, as well as training local operatives.

Dale Power Solutions of Filey was called in to replace the old analogue system with a modern integrated digital system. Dale's overseas assignments had already included upgrading a number of diesel generators in Nigeria.

The turbine control systems have to be integrated with the fuel control equipment supplied by Heinzmann UK Ltd of Teeside. Dale and Heinzmann worked together to ensure complete integration and compatibility.

Site constraints and logistical problems

There were other complexities. All installation and gas equipment had to be supplied with the control system in one delivery. Also, the bespoke control systems had to be installed in the original panels. Most importantly, there could be no downtime at the plant. While one new control system was being installed and commissioned, the other generator and its control system had to continue maintaining power supply to customers.

Co-ordination and teamwork

Dale overcame the difficulties by supplying the first of two control systems in chassis form.

Two engineers from Dale then followed the delivery to Nigeria, where they worked alongside personnel who were installing the overhauled turbine.

Following the successful commissioning of the new equipment, Dale's engineers remained on site to train some ten site operatives. The first unit began operating successfully in mid-2004 and the second unit was supplied and installed early in 2005.

Future-proofed for expansion

A confident Bayelsa State Electricity Board is now looking to expand its plant. The Board has indicated its preference for future turbine equipment to incorporate Dale controls.