If there's any word I can use to describe how power supply works in my nation, it would be the word unsteady. Power supply in my country has been as unsteady as a toddler's walk. To put this into perspective, I can't remember the last time electricity was on for a full 24, nay 18 hours. Can you imagine that?
I was discussing with a friend and I told him that if somebody from a country with uninterrupted power supply comes to my country it would be like a person moving from heaven to hell.
Power Supply In My Country Currently
I wouldn't say power supply is amazing in my country currently, but I can say it has improved under the present administration. Under the past administration the power supply was epileptic. Sometimes they even rationed it and some apartments wouldn't have light for a whole day.
But since the new administration took over, it has been better. There's been times we've had power for up to 10 hours uninterrupted.
Power Supply Problems We Suffer In My Country
Apart from the problem of inconsistent power supply, another problem is the high electricity prices. In the apartment where I reside, 3 flats were disconnected because they owe the power company a lot of money whch runs into hundreds of thousands of naira (about $200s).
I know a friend that lives some streets away from mine. Their power supply has been disconnected for years now. They just told the power supply officials to disconnect it because they can't cope with the hefty electricity prices. This my friend goes around everyday to see where he can charge his smartphones. It's not a palatable experience at all. Another friend of mine had to relocate to another state because of power supply problems.
Another problem is that if power supply equipment like the transformer or cables get spoiled, it will take days before they are repaired. Unless there's a “big man” living in the street.
How These Problems Affect Me As A Person
Because of the unsteady supply of power in my nation I find it difficult sometimes doing some important things. Like preparing a meal or charging my phones or ironing clothes etc. Sometimes you have to visit friends to do some of these thing. It's so stressful, believe me.
Presently in my area power had to go out for some days and they said the people refused to pay electricity bills and they took the power company to court. Then the power company disconnected the supply till the case is resolved. It had to take the intervention of the governor for power to be restored.
Things I Do To Survive These Problems
Having a power bank handy has been useful in powering my smartphone. I use Gas cylinders to cook meals if these no power though gas is very costly nowadays. If there's no gas, I use the charcoal or firewood stove.
I also plan to install solar panels in my home. I also plan to have a petrol generator so if the solar panels fail any time I can use it.
Conclusion
The power supply situation in my country is very pathetic. I hope all the plans I have can help me survive these challenges.
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