NERC Gives GenCos December Deadline For Real-time Integration With TCN

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a firm deadline for Generation Companies (GenCos) to achieve real-time integration with the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) by December 2025.

This order, which aims to enhance grid stability and improve the efficiency of electricity supply across the country, is to ensure that GenCos fully integrate their operations with TCN’s supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and energy management system (EMS).

NERC issued the directive, titled ‘Order on the Mandatory Integration of Grid-Connected Generating Units into the New SCADA/EMS for the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry,’ on June 18.

The order, signed by NERC chairman, Garba Sanusi, and  the commission’s vice-chairman, Musiliu Oseni, took effect from May 22.

NERC said the order aims to establish a structured framework and further “enhance grid visibility and operational efficiency through real-time monitoring of grid operations” through the full integration of GenCos.

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According to the commission, it will ensure compliance with the provisions of the grid code for the Nigerian Electricity Transmission System (NETS).

The order, NERC said, also aims to minimise system disturbances through proactive monitoring and rapid response to grid anomalies.

“Establish penalties for non-compliance to deter violations and ensure adherence to SCADA/EMS integration requirements,” the order reads.

“Facilitate efficient market operations by ensuring accurate data for settlement, forecasting, and ancillary services.”

According to the commission, the order also intends to facilitate stable interstate and international grid operations in the emerging multi tier electricity market.

“Pursuant to Section 12.2 of the Grid Code for the Nigeria Electricity Transmission System (the “Grid Code” or the “Code”), all the Generation Companies (“GenCos”) are mandated to provide real-time operational data to the Nigerian Independent System Operator (“NISO”) through the SCADA/EMS to facilitate effective grid management,” NERC said.

“Section 20.16 further requires the GenCos to ensure seamless communication and data exchange with the Transmission Company of Nigeria Plc (“TCN”)’s SCADA/EMS for accurate system monitoring, fault detection, and load dispatch.

“Section 20.16.1 of the Grid Code stipulates that “SCADA Remote Terminal Units shall be required in all the control rooms of the System Operator and at the Off-taker’s boundary site and the Generator’s control room for the transmission of signals and indications to and from the National Control Center (NCC).

“Section 20.16.2 of the Code further provides that “Interface cabinets shall be installed in the relevant control room and the User shall provide and maintain wiring and signaling from the User’s Plant and Apparatus to the interface cabinet.”

The commission said the SCADA/EMS/system telecommunications project has advanced significantly, reaching a stage where integrating power generation units is necessary for a fully functional and efficient system.

NERC said any GenCo failing to integrate its generating unit into the TCN system by December 31 will incur a one per cent penalty on the total energy invoice for each month of non-compliance, adding that “such non-compliant units (will be) disconnected from the grid”.