The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission has issued a new directive mandating all grid-connected power generation companies to fully integrate their systems with the national Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition/Energy Management System (SCADA/EMS) by December 31, 2025.
According to The PUNCH, the commission said any generation company that fails to comply risks severe financial sanctions and potential disconnection from the national grid.
The directive, titled “Order on the Mandatory Integration of Grid-Connected Generating Units into the New SCADA/EMS for the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry,” took effect on May 22, 2025, and was signed by the Commission’s Chairman, Garba Sanusi, and Vice Chairman, Musiliu Oseni.
The move is aimed at enhancing real-time monitoring of the country’s power grid, improving system coordination, and minimizing frequent national grid collapses caused by poor synchronization between power generation, transmission, and distribution units.
According to NERC, “All grid-connected GenCos are required to install SCADA-compliant data acquisition devices, ensure they are compatible with Transmission Company of Nigeria protocols, and enable remote visibility by the Nigerian Independent System Operator.”
The Commission emphasized that full visibility into power generation operations is necessary for efficient load dispatch and quick fault detection.
Citing the Grid Code provisions, the Commission stated: “Pursuant to Section 12.2 of the Grid Code, all generation companies must provide real-time operational data to the Nigerian Independent System Operator through the SCADA/EMS to enable effective grid management.”
It also referenced Section 20.16, which obliges power generators to ensure seamless communication with TCN’s SCADA system for system accuracy and operational safety.
Further explaining the technical requirements, the directive noted that “SCADA Remote Terminal Units shall be installed in all relevant control rooms to transmit signals between the generator’s control room, the Off-taker’s boundary site, and the National Control Centre.”
In addition, interface cabinets must be installed, and generators are to provide and maintain necessary wiring and signaling infrastructure.
The integration, NERC said, will cover real-time data transmission of parameters such as voltage, frequency, active and reactive power, fault alarms, and circuit breaker statuses.
“The SCADA/EMS System Telecommunications project being executed by the TCN has reached a point where integrating GenCos is now critical to achieving a fully functional system,” the Commission added.
NERC assured that the directive is not only about regulation but a necessary step to ensure improved electricity supply for Nigerians through enhanced grid reliability and transparency.
