Blackout looms as TCN moves to disconnect firms from National grid

There are concerns over a looming nationwide blackout as the Federal government said it had commenced the disconnection of some power companies from the National grid over non-adherence to the Electricity Market Rules.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, disclosed this on Tuesday in a statement by the head of Market Operators, Dr Edmund Eje.

TCN, the government agency responsible for power transmission in Nigeria, explained that the development is coming as the need arises to enforce Nigeria’s Electricity Supply Industry, NESI, for the sectors’ sustainability and viability.

TCN urged players in the sector to respect and comply with existing rules to avoid sanctions.

“Notice of intention to suspend is then sent. If the participant fails to comply with the notice, the Market Operator may issue a notice of intent to suspend a participant’s access to the market.

“This notice will specify the reasons for the intended suspension, the proposed duration of the suspension, and the conditions for lifting the moratorium. It is an opportunity to respond. The participant will be allowed to respond to the notice of intention to suspend and explain why the suspension should not be imposed,” it said.

After privatising Nigeria’s power sector in 2013, the industry had yet to live up to expectations.

Incessant power blackouts, poor revenue, skyrocketing electricity tariffs and other challenges are still facing the sector.

Eleven Distribution Companies and 23 generation plants are connected to the grid operated by TCN.