The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, (NERC), has issued a new directive requiring all grid-connected Power Generation Companies (GenCos) to fully integrate their operations with the National Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system by December 31.
The directive is contained in a newly released regulatory framework titled: “Order on the Mandatory Integration of Grid-Connected Generating Units into the New SCADA/EMS for the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry”.
SCADA/Energy Management System serves as the central nervous system of grid operations—enabling automated controls, real-time fault detection, and live monitoring of power generation output.
According to the Commission, GenCos that fail to comply with this directive will face significant financial penalties and possible disconnection from the national grid.
The order, which was published on NERC’s website yesterday and took effect from May 22, was signed by NERC Chairman, Garba Sanusi, and Vice-Chairman, Musiliu Oseni.
According to the Commission, the integration shall include real-time data transmission of the following parameters: Active Power, Reactive Power, Frequency, Voltage, Status of Circuit breakers, and Fault alarms. It also said that the document further provided many other details required from the Gencos and other operators in the sector.
According to the Commission, the order seeks to strengthen real-time monitoring of the power grid, improve operational efficiency, enhance load dispatch, and reduce nationwide system disturbances by ensuring full visibility of electricity generation across the country.
The Commission said that the new order compelled power generators to install SCADA- compliant data acquisition devices, ensure compatibility with the TCN’s protocols and allow remote visibility by the Nigerian Independent System Operator.
It also noted that Section 20.16.2 of the code further provided that interface cabinets shall be installed in the relevant control room, and the user shall provide and maintain wiring and signalling from the user’s plant and apparatus to the interface cabinet.
The Commission said that the SCADA/EMS/System Telecommunications project being executed by the TCN had progressed substantially to a level that required the integration of the power generation units to have a complete functional and efficient SCADA/EMS for the NESI”
It further stated that the order aimed to, through the full integration of Gencos, enhance grid visibility and operational efficiency through real-time monitoring of grid operations to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Grid Code for the Nigerian Electricity Transmission System.
