Nigeria Cuts Electricity Supplies to Benin Republic, Togo, Niger
The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has ordered a reduction in electricity exports to Benin Republic, the Niger Republic, and Togo.
Excel Magazine International learnt that the NERC directive mandates the Transmission Company of Nigeria’s System Operator (SO) to limit power allocations to these neighboring countries to a maximum of six percent of the total grid capacity.
This directive, which takes effect from May 1, 2024, was announced in a document entitled ‘Interim Order on Transmission System Dispatch Operations, Cross-border Supply, and Related Matters.’
Signed on April 29, 2024, by NERC Chairman Sanusi Garba and Vice Chairman Musiliu Oseni, the order will be in effect for six months, with the possibility of revisions based on the operational circumstances.
The decision stems from concerns over current grid dispatch practices that have adversely affected the capability of Distribution Companies (DisCos) to meet their tariff obligations to consumers.
The NERC criticized existing policies that favor international and specific domestic customers over general distribution needs, describing these practices as “neither efficient nor equitable.”
The interim measures are designed to improve the standard operating procedures of the System Operator and the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), ensuring greater transparency and fairness in grid operations.
Moreover, the NERC has imposed a requirement for the System Operator to develop a pro-rata load-shedding scheme to ensure equitable power distribution among all consumers—local DisCos, international customers, and other eligible customers—especially during periods of generation shortfall or grid instability.
To enforce compliance, the System Operator will monitor and report hourly generation and distribution data, implementing penalties for any deviations from established grid instructions or contracted supply quotas.
Excel Magazine International reports that this strict monitoring regime is expected to include the installation of advanced Internet of Things (IoT) meters at all relevant points, providing real-time data to enhance grid management.
These installations should be completed within three months following the issuance of the order.
