The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has announced plans to conduct a public hearing to address the ongoing power grid disturbances that have led to frequent power outages across various states in the country.
In a statement posted on its official X handle, NERC expressed concerns about the recent power grid disturbances, which have disrupted power supply in several regions. The commission highlighted that these incidents threaten to undermine the progress made in stabilising the national grid and improving infrastructure.
“In pursuit of finding a permanent resolution to the challenges of the national grid, the Commission shall shortly conduct an investigative public hearing with a view to identifying immediate and remote causes of recurring incidence of power grid disturbances and widespread outages.” the statement read.
NERC also mentioned that the date and location of the public hearing would be announced in national newspapers, encouraging stakeholders to participate in the proceedings.
The commission further noted that, under the provisions of the Electricity Act 2023, the process of unbundling the System Operator (ISO) from the Transmission Company of Nigeria Plc is ongoing. It expressed optimism that establishing an independent system operator would promote greater discipline in grid management and lead to optimised investment in infrastructure.
Regarding the latest grid collapse, NERC explained that initial reports suggest it was caused by an explosion at the Jebba transmission station’s current transformer at 08:15 hrs, resulting in a cascade of power plant shutdowns due to the loss of load lock. However, the commission assured that restoration efforts have made significant progress, with power restored to 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by 13:00 hrs.