Reduced power allocation to DisCos due to inadequate gas supply, says NISO

The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) says reduced energy allocation to electricity distribution companies (DisCos) is due to inadequate gas supply to thermal generating stations.

In a statement on Friday, the operator said given that since thermal stations make up most of the country’s power mix, any gas supply disruption directly reduces overall grid output.

“We hereby notify the general public and all market participants that the current average available generation of approximately 4,300MW is primarily due to inadequate gas supply to thermal generating stations,” the statement reads.

“Given that thermal plants account for the dominant share of Nigeria’s generation mix, any disruption or limitation in gas supply directly affects available generation capacity and overall grid output.

“Consequently, the current energy allocated to Distribution Companies (DisCos) reflects the reduced supply available on the grid.”

The NISO said available operational data shows that thermal power plants collectively need an estimated 1,629.75 million standard cubic feet (mmscf) of gas per day to operate at optimal capacity.

However, as of February 23, 2026, the agency noted that actual gas supply to the plants was about 692 mmscf, indicating a significant shortfall in daily supply requirements.

“The available gas supply represents less than 43% of the required volume, resulting in constrained generation output,” NISO said.

“The current low generation level is fundamentally driven by inadequate gas supply to thermal generating units, leading to reduced energy allocation to the DisCos.

“When total system generation drops significantly, the Independent System Operator must implement load shedding across the system, while dispatching available energy in line with the NERC MYTO allocation percentages across all distribution networks to maintain grid stability and prevent system disturbances.”

The agency expressed regret over the inconvenience the situation may cause electricity consumers and affected market participants.

The NISO promised to continue to collaborate closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure full energy allocation once gas supply improves and generation capacity is restored.

On February 12, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited said some power generation companies may experience reduced gas availability as Seplat Energy Plc, a key supplier of gas to the NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC) pipeline network, scheduled a four-day routine maintenance on its production facilities. (The Cable)