UTILITY MAPPING OF TRANSFORMERS IN PART OF BAUCHI METROPOLIS, BAUCHI

 Abstract This study focuses on utility mapping of transformers in part of Bauchi metropolis, Bauchi State. With the aim of producing utility map of transformers in part of Bauchi metropolis, to identify the locations of transformers and developing a comprehensive geodatabase of the transformers and the determination of the spatial relationship between transformers and the customers. Handheld global positioning system (GPS) equipment was used to obtain primary data, (the Eastings and Northings of transformers) while secondary data such as base map, satellite imagery, transformers inventory records were sourced from Bauchi State ministry of land and survey, Google Earth and Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC). Reconnaissance surveys, utility surveys and detail measurement of distance from transformers to buildings were carried out to obtain the spatial coordinate of transformers and their distances to buildings. The data were processed and analyzed using ArcMap, Google earth and Microsoft excel to generate the utility maps of existing transformers. Result reveals that the government reserves area and Sabon Kaura recorded high level of non-conformity with regulatory standards with the percentage of 61.2% and 66.7% while Yelwa recorded 47.9%. These variation or discrepancies highlight the significant of utility mapping of transformers validating their conditions ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and providing accurate and reliable information for maintenance, electrical facility management and future development. It is recommended that Differential Global Position System (DGPS) or Real Time Kinematics (RTK), Terrestrial Laser Scanner, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and using ArcGIS Pro, QGIS integrated with spatial extensions will give more precise accuracy with enhanced analytical capacity and visualization. Also, this study should be extended to areas like Dass, Toro and Ningi facing similar electricity challenges and Jos Electricity Distribution Company should adopt the findings of this study in their decision making.