- November 30 set as compliance deadline
- Defaulters risk fines and disconnection
- IoT meters to monitor real-time output
The Federal Government has warned electricity-generating companies that failure to meet new standards will lead to disconnection from the national grid
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) issued the order on August 26, 2025, with enforcement starting today, September 1. The directive, signed by the commission’s top officials, requires all generation companies (GenCos) to activate Free Governor Control (FGC) in their power plants before the November 30 deadline.
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FGC allows turbines to automatically adjust power output in response to grid changes, thereby helping to keep frequency stable and preventing frequent system disturbances. NERC explained that this measure is critical to reducing blackouts and ensuring the reliability of Nigeria’s electricity supply.
The new order carries stiff consequences. Any GenCo that fails to activate FGC will pay 10 percent of its invoiced amount for each defaulting unit. Units that remain non-compliant for 90 consecutive days will be disconnected from the grid until they are upgraded.
To make enforcement tighter, GenCos are also required to install Grade Level 5 IoT-enabled meters capable of tracking key data such as voltage, power factor, frequency, and energy output. These devices must be installed no later than October 31, 2025, and the Nigerian Independent System Operator will link them to its network within 20 days for real-time monitoring.
NERC stressed that the directive is rooted in sections 12.6.2 and 15.8.3 of the Grid Code, backed by the Electricity Act of 2023, which gives the regulator powers to maintain grid stability and enforce compliance.
According to the commission, the move is not just about penalties but about securing a sustainable electricity system. It argued that if all GenCos comply, Nigerians will experience fewer power cuts and the grid will be better positioned to support industrial and domestic needs.
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