NISO reveals what caused National grid collapse

The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), a unit of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), has attributed the national grid collapse experienced earlier on Friday to the simultaneous tripping of multiple 330kV transmission lines, coupled with the disconnection of some grid-connected power generation units.

In a statement released via its official social media platforms, on Friday, January 23, NISO said operational reports confirmed that the combined incidents triggered the system disturbance that led to the collapse.

According to the operator, restoration activities commenced at about 1:15pm in line with established grid recovery and restoration procedures.

“As of the time of this update, power supply has been successfully restored to Abuja, Osogbo, Benin, Onitsha, Sapele, Jebba, Kainji, Shiroro and parts of Lagos, while restoration efforts are ongoing progressively across other parts of the country,” the statement said.

NISO added that a comprehensive investigation is currently underway to determine the root and contributory causes of the disturbance.

Data obtained from the system operator also showed gradual improvement in power generation as the restoration process continues. As at the time of filing this report, seven generating companies were contributing a combined total of 1,118.80 megawatts to the grid.

Distribution load allocation also recorded noticeable recovery, with the eleven electricity distribution companies (DisCos) collectively allocated a total load of 1,540MW.

Ikeja DisCo recorded the highest allocation at 350MW, followed by Abuja DisCo with 270MW. Ibadan DisCo received 240MW, while Eko DisCo was allocated 200MW.

Port Harcourt DisCo had no allocation at the time of the report, standing at 0.00MW. Yola and Jos DisCos recorded the lowest allocations with 30MW each. Enugu DisCo received 100MW, Benin DisCo 70MW, while Kano and Kaduna DisCos were allocated 100MW and 150MW respectively.

Restoration efforts, NISO said, will continue until full stability is returned to the national grid.