Gas constraints responsible for reduction in power generation – NISO

The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has said that continued decline in electricity generation on the national grid has been due to persistent gas supply constraints.

According to the System Operator in a statement Thursday, said the situation is taking its toll several thermal power plants.

“As at 05:00 hours of today Thursday, 5th March 2026, total generation on the national grid stood at 3,940.53 MW, which was already below the expected capacity due to existing gas supply limitations impacting a number of generating stations.

“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 resulted in a cumulative reduction of approximately 292 MW in available generation on the grid during the period.

“Operational data as of 04 March 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% 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,” NISO said.

Agency said it is 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 added.