NISO gives reason for declining electricity supply
Nigerian Independent System Operator Reports Decline in Power Output Due to Gas Supply Shortages
The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has identified decreasing power output in Nigeria as a result of generation shortfalls and limitations in gas supply.
In a statement released on Friday, NISO explained that any disruption in gas supply directly impacts both generation capacity and overall grid performance. The organization noted that the current energy allocation to Distribution Companies (DisCos) mirrors the reduced supply on the grid.
Operational data from NISO indicates that thermal power plants require approximately 1,629.75 million standard cubic feet (MMSCF) of gas daily to function at optimal capacity. However, as of February 23, 2026, the actual gas supply to these plants was about 692.00 MMSCF, resulting in a notable shortfall of nearly 937.75 MMSCF each day.
NISO emphasized that this supply represents less than 43% of the necessary volume, leading to a constrained generation output. The agency pointed out that the current low level of electricity generation is largely attributable to insufficient gas supply to thermal generating units, which in turn has resulted in reduced energy allocation to DisCos.
“We hereby notify the general public and all market participants that the current average available generation of approximately 4,300 MW is primarily due to inadequate gas supply to thermal generating stations,” NISO stated.
The operator added that significant drops in total system generation necessitate load shedding across the network while distributing remaining energy according to National Electric Regulatory Commission (NERC) Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO) allocation percentages to maintain grid stability and prevent disturbances.
While acknowledging the inconvenience caused to electricity consumers and market participants, NISO affirmed its commitment to collaborate with stakeholders to restore full energy allocation as gas supply improves.
