By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has attributed the decline in electricity generation across the country to inadequate gas supply to thermal power stations and reduced water inflows into reservoirs powering hydroelectric plants.
The development has constrained electricity generation on the national grid, resulting in reduced power allocations to Distribution Companies (DisCos), shorter hours of electricity supply and increased load shedding across distribution networks.
In a statement issued by its management, NISO explained that limited gas availability had prevented affected thermal generating stations from operating at their available capacities, while declining water inflows into reservoirs had negatively impacted the output of hydroelectric power stations.
The System Operator noted that the combined challenges had reduced the volume of electricity available for distribution to consumers, with the level of impact varying across networks depending on available generation and the corresponding allocations to individual DisCos.
It acknowledged the impact of the generation shortfall on electricity consumers nationwide, expressing appreciation for the concerns raised by members of the public and other stakeholders over the declining power supply.
NISO, however, assured consumers that it remained committed to maintaining grid stability and optimising the dispatch of available electricity generation to ensure the secure, reliable and efficient operation of the national grid despite the prevailing constraints.
The operator also disclosed that efforts were ongoing to diversify the country’s energy mix as part of measures to strengthen the security and reliability of electricity supply.
