OREANDA-NEWS. July 16, 2015. GE’s Distributed Power business (NYSE: GE) announced that four of its Waukesha gas Enginators were commissioned at the Lekki Free Zone (LFZ) near Lagos, providing 12 megawatts (MW) of uninterrupted power supply to the first phase of the Lekki development zone.

With three Waukesha 275GL+ and one VHP 7104GSI gas Enginators, this project is the largest of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa using GE’s 275GL+ and VHP Enginator technology. The engines’ wide fuel flexibility and ability to run on compressed natural gas and propane provides operators with a cost-effective alternative to other fuels as well the ability to meet the zone’s strict environmental guidelines regarding exhaust emissions.

“The future of the Lekki Trade Zone is essential to Nigeria’s growth as West Africa’s economic driver,” said Omodele Doherty, AGM—Business Development of the LFZ. “We cannot accomplish our expansion goals without a reliable source of continuous power, which is why we turned to GE’s Waukesha technology as a solution.” 

The LFZ covers a total area of 16,500 hectares and is being developed in a joint venture between the Lagos State Government and the Chinese consortium CCECC-Beyond International Investment & Development Co., Ltd (CCECC-Beyond). The Waukesha Enginators were procured from GE and supplied by China Diesel Support Services Ltd (CDSS), a Hong Kong-based authorized distributor of GE’s Waukesha gas engines.     

The LFZ’s (Phase I) electrical power needs and requirements at full occupancy is envisaged to expand to an estimated 540 MW gross capacity, as the LFZ quickly develops into one of the largest free-trade commercial, logistics and manufacturing hubs in West Africa. Development in the LFZ is supported by investment incentives from the Lagos State government and further growth is expected as the area becomes an increasingly important global distribution center.

“The Lekki Free Zone is a landmark development that will further consolidate Nigeria as a leading investment destination in Africa,” said George Njenga, sub-Saharan region leader for GE’s Distributed Power business. ”We are delighted to provide GE’s proven Waukesha power solutions to this important industrial and commercial hub.”

With over 150 units installed throughout Nigeria, GE’s Waukesha customers receive local expert sales and service support for the lifetime of their equipment from IGPES Gas & Power, the authorized Waukesha gas engines distributor in Nigeria. GE’s reciprocating engine network in the country also is strengthened by Clarke Energy, the authorized distributor for GE’s Jenbacher and diesel engine product lines, which serves hundreds of commercial and industrial customers with complete power generation solutions.   

This announcement comes one year after GE launched its Distributed Power business for Africa in Lagos, building on GE's commitment to help address the continent's need for reliable, local power to promote economic development and security in urban and rural areas.

About the Lekki Free Zone

Our Vision: To engage directly in the economic development of Nigeria by providing a choice for Investors in the most conducive free zone business environment that will be recognized for setting standards of excellence.

Our Mission: To develop an offshore economic growth zone, attract foreign investments, promote export, create job opportunities, minimize capital flight and establish a one stop global business haven.  For more information, visit www.lfzdc.org.

About GE’s Distributed Power Business

GE Power & Water’s Distributed Power business is a leading provider of power equipment, engines and services focused on power generation at or near the point of use. Distributed Power’s product portfolio includes highly efficient industrial reciprocating engines and aeroderivative gas turbines that generate 100 kW to 116 MW of power for numerous industries globally. In addition, Distributed Power offers life cycle services and support for more than 39,000 distributed power products worldwide to help customers meet their business challenges—anywhere and anytime.

Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Distributed Power employs about 4,500 people around the world.

About GE

GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company's website at www.ge.com.