Grid Trippings: NERC Moves To Checkmate Incidences, Orders Private Transmission Substations To Get Permits

Following observed frequent trippings of the national grid  attributed to uncontrolled connections by private transmission substations, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has ordered the owners of private transmission substation to obtain an Independent Electricity Transmission Network Operator (IETNO) Permit before operating or connecting to the grid.

The NERC  directive contained in Order on the Registration and Authorisation of Grid-Connected Private Transmission Substations (NERC/2026/013), is effective 9 March 2026.

NERC explained that the Order is meant to strengthen oversight of privately owned substations connected to Nigeria’s national grid.

Specifically, “The Order establishes a regulatory framework requiring owners of private transmission substations used by bulk electricity consumers to obtain an Independent Electricity Transmission Network Operator (IETNO) Permit before operating or connecting to the grid.

“The directive was introduced to improve grid reliability, safety, and operational visibility following frequent transmission line trips reported by the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO).”

Further, the Commission ordered that NISO must submit to NERC a comprehensive list of all existing Private Transmission Substation Owners (PTSOs) and notify them of the provisions of the Order within five (5) days.