NERC orders GenCos to integrate operations with SCADA

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission has issued a new directive requiring all grid-connected power generation companies to fully integrate their operations with the National Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition system by December 31. The 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 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”.
The order was published on NERC’s website on Friday and took effect from May 22. It was signed by NERC chairman Garba Sanusi and vice-chairman Musiliu Oseni. According to the commission, the integration will include real-time data transmission of active power, reactive power, frequency, voltage, status of circuit breakers, and fault alarms. It also stated that the document provided many other details required from the Gencos and other operators in the sector.
According to the commission, the order aims to enhance real-time monitoring of the power grid, improve operational efficiency, optimise load dispatch, and minimise nationwide system disturbances by ensuring full visibility of electricity generation across the country. The commission stated that the new order required power generators to install SCADA-compliant data acquisition devices, ensure compatibility with the TCN’s protocols, and allow remote visibility to the Nigerian Independent System Operator. “Pursuant to Section 12.2 of the Grid Code for the Nigeria Electricity Transmission System (the ‘Grid Code’ or the ‘Code’), all the generation companies are mandated to provide real-time operational data to the Nigerian Independent System Operator through the SCADA/EMS to facilitate effective grid management. Section 20.16 further requires the Gencos to ensure seamless communication and data exchange with the Transmission Company of Nigeria SCADA/EMS for accurate system monitoring, fault detection, and load dispatch,” said the order.
It added, “Section 20.16.1 of the Grid Code stipulates that SCADA Remote Terminal Units shall be required in all the control rooms of the System Operator and at the Off-taker’s boundary site and the generator’s control room for the transmission of signals and indications to and from the National Control Centre.” The commission 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. NAN