New directive aims to improve grid stability, safety, and monitoring across Nigeria’s electricity network…..
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission has ordered operators of privately owned transmission substations connected to the national grid to obtain a regulatory permit within 45 days or risk sanctions.
The directive was announced in a public notice titled “Registration and Authorisation of Grid-Connected Private Transmission Substations,” which outlines new compliance requirements for operators within Nigeria’s electricity sector.
According to the regulator, owners of existing private transmission substations must apply for an Independent Electricity Transmission Network Operator (IETNO) permit within the specified period.
“Existing private transmission substation owners must apply to the Commission for an IETNO Permit within 45 days,” the notice stated.
The order, which took effect on March 9, is part of efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight of privately owned substations that supply electricity directly to large industrial consumers.
NERC explained that the new framework is designed to ensure that all private transmission infrastructure connected to the grid operates under clearly defined regulatory standards.
“The Order establishes a regulatory framework requiring owners of private transmission substations used by bulk electricity consumers to obtain an Independent Electricity Transmission Network Operator Permit before operating or connecting to the grid,” the commission said.
The regulator noted that the directive was introduced following repeated transmission disruptions reported by the Nigerian Independent System Operator, which oversees the stability of Nigeria’s power grid.
According to NERC, stronger oversight will help improve grid reliability, enhance safety standards, and provide better operational visibility within the electricity transmission network.
As part of the new requirements, the commission has directed the system operator to compile and submit a comprehensive list of all existing private transmission substation operators in the country.
The Nigerian Independent System Operator has also been instructed to notify all identified operators about the new regulatory order within five days.
For new projects, the commission said prospective operators must obtain the required permit before connecting any private transmission substation to the national grid.
Failure to comply with the directive could result in regulatory penalties.
To further strengthen monitoring of grid operations, the regulator revealed that the system operator will deploy Internet of Things (IoT)-based metering systems at key substation interconnection points.
These devices are expected to be installed within 120 days, enabling real-time monitoring of electricity flows and improving system transparency.
In addition, operators of private transmission substations will now be required to submit monthly operational reports detailing their activities and system performance.
NERC said the system operator will also conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance with the new rules and existing grid standards.
The commission explained that the directive forms part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening regulatory governance within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry.
Ultimately, officials say the policy is intended to improve grid stability, enforce compliance with the national grid code, and enhance coordination between private infrastructure operators and the country’s electricity transmission network.
About the Author
