By Abiodun Folarin
WorldStage— The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has attributed the current decline in electricity generation on the national grid to inadequate gas supply to thermal power plants and reduced water inflows into hydroelectric power stations.
NISO said the constraints had reduced the operational capacity of thermal generating stations and affected the output of hydroelectric plants, resulting in lower electricity available for distribution across the country.
In a statement clarifying the factors behind the current power generation shortfall, the system operator explained that limited gas availability had constrained affected thermal power stations from operating at their available capacities.
It added that reduced water inflows into reservoirs had similarly affected the generation capacity of hydroelectric power stations.
According to NISO, the combined impact of the constraints has reduced the volume of electricity allocated to Distribution Companies (DisCos) for onward supply to consumers.
The development has consequently resulted in shorter hours of electricity supply and increased load shedding across distribution networks, although the extent of the impact varies among DisCos depending on available generation and their respective allocations.
NISO acknowledged the hardship caused by the generation shortfall to electricity consumers nationwide, expressing appreciation for concerns raised by members of the public and other stakeholders.
The operator said it was working towards diversifying the country’s energy mix to strengthen electricity supply security, while managing the operational challenges confronting the national grid.
It reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining grid stability, optimising the dispatch of available generation and ensuring the secure, reliable and efficient operation of the national grid within prevailing operational constraints.
