Grid-Connected Private Transmission Substations Must Register—NERC

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

All private transmission connected to the national grid must register and get authorisation to operate, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has declared.

In a statement, the electricity regulatory body in Nigeria directed 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.

It was disclosed that this latest development, which became effective March 9, 2026, is to strengthen oversight of privately owned substations connected to Nigeria’s national grid.

NERC further said 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).

Under the order, 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 days.

Existing PTSOs must apply to NERC for an IETNO permit within 45 days, while new PTSOs must obtain the permit before connecting to the grid, as non-compliance attracts regulatory sanctions.

NISO will deploy IoT-based metering systems at substation interconnection points within 120 days.

Further, operators must submit monthly operational reports, while NISO will conduct inspections to ensure compliance.