NDPHC deploys AI to improve power plant management

The Niger Delta Power Holding Company has adopted artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to predict equipment failures and improve the performance of its power plants as part of efforts to boost electricity generation and reduce operational downtime.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NDPHC, Jennifer Adighije, disclosed this during an engagement with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, where she highlighted how emerging technologies are transforming operations across the company’s generation assets.

According to a statement by the company on Sunday, Adighije said AI-driven predictive maintenance was enabling the company to identify potential equipment failures before they occur, allowing engineers to carry out timely interventions and minimise plant outages.

According to her, the deployment of AI and machine learning tools marks a shift from reactive maintenance to data-driven asset management, helping to improve operational efficiency and plant reliability.

She said, “Artificial intelligence and machine learning are no longer futuristic concepts; they are practical tools transforming how we manage power infrastructure. At NDPHC, we are leveraging AI-driven predictive maintenance to anticipate equipment failures before they happen, enabling timely interventions that reduce downtime and improve plant availability.”

She explained that the company was integrating intelligent systems into its operations to analyse vast amounts of operational data, optimise maintenance schedules, and enhance decision-making.

The NDPHC boss noted that digital technologies were becoming indispensable in modern power systems, stressing that the company was committed to adopting global best practices to strengthen Nigeria’s electricity value chain.

“By harnessing data analytics and machine learning algorithms, we can optimise maintenance schedules, improve operational efficiency, and extend the lifespan of critical generation assets. This is essential for delivering more reliable electricity to Nigerians,” she said.

Adighije added that beyond predictive maintenance, AI has the potential to improve demand forecasting, optimise grid management, and support energy efficiency initiatives across the power sector.

She stressed that the successful deployment of digital technologies would require sustained investment in infrastructure, capacity building, and collaboration among government agencies, private sector players, and research institutions.

She reaffirmed NDPHC’s commitment to innovation, saying the company would continue exploring advanced technologies that improve operational excellence and contribute to Nigeria’s energy security.

According to her, embracing AI and other digital solutions will not only strengthen power generation but also position Nigeria’s electricity industry to compete in an increasingly technology-driven global energy landscape.

She added that the power firm is committed to boosting electricity supply across the country.