Blackouts: Royal Castle generates 14MW with gas plant

Amid persistent power supply challenges facing Nigeria’s industrial sector, Royal Castle Ceramic Company Limited has made a strategic leap toward energy independence with the installation of a 14.8-megawatt gas-fired power plant in partnership with Clarke Energy.

Led by its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Qian Jin, the ceramic manufacturer—long burdened by erratic grid electricity and soaring diesel expenses—turned to a more stable and cost-effective energy solution to power its operations.

In a statement issued yesterday, Jin confirmed that the new gas facility is now fully operational, ensuring consistent electricity supply vital to the company’s manufacturing processes.

“Power supply has been a major issue. We’ve faced frequent outages from the national grid, which disrupt production schedules and increase costs,” Jin stated.

A Technological Shift with Environmental Benefits

Built with technical support from Clarke Energy, the power plant is based on INNIO Jenbacher gas engine technology, known for high efficiency and low emissions.

According to Jin, this transition has drastically lowered energy costs, reduced operational downtime, and improved overall production efficiency.

“Unlike the unreliable national grid and the high cost of diesel, gas power plants provide a more stable and uninterrupted power supply, which is vital for our sensitive manufacturing equipment,” he said.

The MD further noted that the switch to gas has supported the company’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions, aligning its operations with global environmental standards.

Clarke Energy Backs Industrial Energy Transformation

Speaking on the development, Yiannis Tsantilas, Managing Director of Clarke Energy for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted the broader implications of the project:

“As the manufacturing sector embraces more reliable and environmentally sustainable power generation alternatives, it positions itself for long-term productivity and growth,” Tsantilas said.

The statement further noted that since adopting gas-based power, Royal Castle has reported significant cost savings, which are now being reinvested in:

• Increased production capacity

• Competitive product pricing

• Market expansion efforts

Competing Locally, Growing Globally

Despite the energy success, Royal Castle continues to face Nigeria’s familiar structural bottlenecks, including poor road infrastructure, regulatory complexities, and stiff market competition.

Jin acknowledged these hurdles but emphasized that they have not shaken the company’s confidence in Nigeria’s long-term potential.

“Operating in Nigeria still comes with its fair share of challenges—from inadequate transportation infrastructure to complex regulatory requirements and tough competition from both local and international brands. Manufacturers like Royal Castle must continuously innovate to stay ahead,” Jin explained.

He added that Nigeria remains a high-potential market, thanks to growing urbanisation and ongoing infrastructure development, which drive demand for ceramic products.

Local Sourcing, Regional Expansion

To strengthen its operational base, the company sources raw materials like clay and silica locally and has signed long-term gas supply contracts with Nigerian producers, ensuring a steady stream of inputs and uninterrupted power supply.

Jin stated:

“For gas supply, the company relies on long-term contracts with local producers, ensuring a steady stream of fuel to keep its power plant running smoothly.”

These strategic moves have enabled Royal Castle to scale its operations and expand into new markets across Africa. The company is also adapting product designs for international consumers and participating in global trade fairs, positioning itself for broader regional and global reach.

Powering Ahead: Royal Castle’s Bold Vision

Jin summed up the impact of the energy switch, saying the power plant is more than just infrastructure—it’s a transformative engine of growth.

“At a time when many Nigerian manufacturers are shrinking operations or folding under the weight of energy costs, Royal Castle has cracked the power puzzle, positioning itself not just as a resilient player but as an energy-conscious, forward-thinking force in the ceramic industry. We didn’t wait for the grid; we built our own future, and that decision is powering our growth today.”

With this bold step, Royal Castle Ceramic Company joins a growing list of Nigerian firms abandoning the national grid in favour of self-generation, securing their future in a turbulent energy landscape.