Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a new directive requiring the registration and authorisation of grid-connected private transmission substations, in a move aimed at strengthening oversight and enhancing national grid reliability.
The Order on the Registration and Authorisation of Grid-Connected Private Transmission Substations (NERC/2026/013), which takes effect from 9 March 2026, mandates that owners of private transmission substations serving bulk electricity consumers secure an Independent Electricity Transmission Network Operator (IETNO) Permit before connecting to or operating on Nigeria’s national grid.
According to NERC, the directive is designed to improve grid reliability, safety, and operational visibility, following frequent transmission line trips reported by the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO).
“The Order provides a clear regulatory framework for private substation owners and ensures compliance with the Grid Code of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry,” NERC stated in a statement on Wednesday.
Under the new regulation:
NISO is required to submit a full list of all existing Private Transmission Substation Owners (PTSOs) and notify them of the Order within five (5) days.
Existing PTSOs must apply for an IETNO permit within 45 days.
New PTSOs are required to obtain the permit before connecting to the grid, with non-compliance attracting 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 adherence to the Order.
NERC said the Order is a critical step towards enhancing grid stability, ensuring regulatory compliance, and providing greater oversight of privately operated transmission assets.
“This initiative will not only strengthen Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure but also safeguard consumers and operators by ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of private transmission substations,” NERC added.