NISO blames gas shortage and low water levels for drop in power supply
- The grid operator NISO says gas shortages and low water levels have cut electricity generation nationwide.
- Distribution companies are giving customers fewer hours of power and more load shedding.
- The shortfall comes as intense heat raises demand for fans and air conditioners.
Nigerians are getting fewer hours of electricity as gas shortages and low water levels at hydropower stations cut the power available on the national grid, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) said on Thursday.
In a statement signed by its management, NISO said gas supply constraints have stopped some thermal power plants from running at their full capacity, while reduced water flowing into reservoirs has lowered output from hydroelectric stations.
The two sources together supply most of Nigeria's grid electricity, so trouble with either one quickly shows up in homes and businesses.
NISO said the drop in generation has reduced the amount of electricity allocated to Distribution Companies (DisCos). That has led to shorter supply hours and more load shedding across their networks, with the impact varying from one DisCo to another depending on what is available and how much each is allocated.
Why it matters now
The shortfall comes during intense heat, when households, shops and public facilities depend on fans and air conditioners to cope. Small businesses that rely on power for refrigeration, water pumping and food preservation may have to fall back on petrol and diesel generators, which cost more to run.
NISO said it recognises the hardship the generation shortfall is causing consumers and appreciates the concerns raised by the public and other stakeholders.
The operator said it is working to diversify the energy mix feeding the grid to secure supply, and remains committed to keeping the grid stable and dispatching the electricity that is available.
“NISO remains committed 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,” the statement said.
What happens next
NISO did not say when gas supply or water levels are expected to improve, so the reduced supply hours and load shedding may continue in the near term. The agency said it will keep managing the electricity it has while it pursues a wider energy mix.
