The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has introduced new regulations requiring the country’s electricity transmission network to undergo a comprehensive technical audit at least once every five years in a move aimed at improving the reliability, safety and efficiency of the national grid.
The Commission announced the new Guidelines on the Procedures for Technical Audit of the Transmission System and Network Data Validation 2026 in a public notice issued on Monday.
According to NERC, the guidelines, which took effect on July 20, 2026, were issued pursuant to Sections 34 and 226 of the Electricity Act, 2023, as well as Section 7.2.2 of the Grid Code.
Under the new framework, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) and all licensed Transmission Service Providers (TSPs) are required to conduct comprehensive technical audits of the 330kV and 132kV transmission networks every five years or as otherwise directed by the Commission.
NERC said the guidelines establish a transparent, uniform and standardised process for assessing the condition of the country’s transmission infrastructure and validating network data to strengthen the operational efficiency, reliability, safety and security of Nigeria’s electricity grid.
As part of the new requirements, NISO must engage suitably qualified consultants to carry out the audits, while Transmission Service Providers are expected to grant auditors unrestricted access to transmission facilities, operational records and all other relevant information needed for the exercise.
The guidelines also require TSPs to develop and implement Performance Improvement Plans based on audit findings and submit annual progress reports to the Commission detailing the implementation of recommended corrective measures.
In addition, NERC outlined minimum qualification standards, audit methodologies and scope of work for consultants engaged to undertake the technical assessments.
The Commission urged all stakeholders in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) to familiarise themselves with the new guidelines, which are available on its official website, and ensure full compliance.
According to NERC, the initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen oversight of Nigeria’s transmission infrastructure, improve grid performance and enhance the overall stability of electricity supply across the country.
SOURCE: dailytimesng.com
