The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has attributed the current drop in electricity generation on the national grid mainly to gas supply constraints at thermal power stations and reduced output from hydroelectric plants.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its management, NISO said limited gas availability had prevented affected thermal stations from operating at their available capacity, while lower water inflows into reservoirs had cut the generation capacity of hydroelectric stations.
As a result, the amount of electricity allocated to Distribution Companies (DisCos) for supply to consumers has fallen. This has led to fewer hours of supply and more load shedding across distribution networks.
NISO said the level of impact differs from one DisCo to another, depending on available generation and the allocation each receives.
The operator acknowledged the effect of the shortfall on electricity consumers nationwide and said it appreciated the concerns raised by the public and other stakeholders.
NISO said it was working to diversify the energy mix feeding the national grid to ensure security of supply.
It added that it remains committed to maintaining grid stability, optimising the dispatch of available generation, and ensuring the secure, reliable and efficient operation of the grid within the prevailing operational constraints.
