In a strategic move to tighten regulatory oversight of Nigeria’s energy infrastructure, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a new directive requiring all privately owned, grid-connected transmission substations to obtain formal authorization.
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 (IETNO) Permit before operating or connecting to the grid.
The directive was introduced to improve grid reliability, safety, and operational visibility following frequent transmission line trips reported by the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO).
Under the order, NISO must submit to NERC a comprehensive list of all existing Private Transmission Substation Owners (PTSOs) and notify them of the provisions of the Order within five (5) days.
The order also mandates existing PTSOs to apply to NERC for an IETNO permit within 45 days while new PTSOs must obtain the permit before connecting to the grid, as non-compliance attracts regulatory sanctions.
“NISO will deploy IoT-based metering systems at substation interconnection points within 120 days. Operators must submit monthly operational reports, while NISO will conduct inspections to ensure compliance,” the order read.