NISO gives reasons for low power supply nationwide

From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja

Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has lamented the consistent low supply of gas to the generation companies, a situation that resulted to electricity generation of 3,940.53 MW.

The figure, NISO, said, is below the expected capacity.

According to NISO, between 06:00 hours and 08:00 hours, several generating units were forced to shut down as a result of inadequate gas supply to the plants. This, it said, resulted in a cumulative reduction of approximately 292 MW in available generation on the grid during the period.

“Operational data as of March 4, 2026 indicate that thermal power plants require approximately 1,588.61 million standard cubic feet (MMSCF) of gas per day to operate at optimal capacity. However, actual gas supply to these stations was approximately 652.92MMSCF, representing about 40 per cent of the gas required for optimal generation.

“These developments further reduced the total generation available for dispatch to the national grid and have contributed to the current generation inadequacy being experienced across the system” it said, promising that it’s actively working with the affected generation companies (GenCos) and relevant gas suppliers to closely monitor the situation and facilitate the restoration of generation as soon as gas supply to the affected plants stabilises.

“The system operator continues to take necessary operational measures to maintain grid stability while managing the impact of the reduced generation on the network.

NISO remains committed to keeping stakeholders and the public informed on developments affecting the national grid,” it said.