The Nigerian Independent System Operator has blamed the drop in electricity generation on the national grid on gas supply constraints affecting thermal power plants and lower water levels at hydroelectric power stations.
The operator disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, explaining that the constraints had cut available generation and affected electricity allocations to Distribution Companies.
According to NISO, inadequate gas supply has limited the ability of the affected thermal plants to operate at their available capacity.
It added that reduced water inflows into reservoirs have weakened output from the hydroelectric stations.
The operator said the shortfall had reduced the volume of electricity allocated to DisCos for distribution to consumers, resulting in shorter hours of supply and increased load shedding across distribution networks.
NISO noted that the extent of the impact differs across distribution companies, depending on available generation and their respective electricity allocations.
The operator acknowledged the difficulties faced by electricity consumers nationwide and expressed appreciation for the concerns raised by members of the public and other stakeholders.
It said efforts were ongoing to diversify the energy mix of the national grid, in order to strengthen electricity supply security and reduce exposure to the prevailing operational constraints.
NISO reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining grid stability, optimising the dispatch of available generation and ensuring the secure, reliable and efficient operation of the national grid.
