NERC ORDERS GENCOs TO IMPLEMENT FREE GOVERNOR CONTROL TO ENHANCE GRID STABILITY

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has directed all electricity generation companies (GenCos) connected to the national grid to implement Free Governor Control (FGC) on their generating units. The directive, which became effective on September 1, 2025, aims to enhance the stability and reliability of the nation’s electricity grid.

According to the order, GenCos must integrate and activate FGC on all generating units by November 30, 2025. Any company that fails to comply will face a penalty equivalent to 10% of the defaulting unit’s invoice, while units with 90 consecutive days of non-compliance will be disconnected from the grid.

NERC explained that the measure is necessary to curb recurring grid disturbances and enforce compliance with the Grid Code, ensuring reliability of power supply. The commission cited its mandate under the Electricity Act 2023, which empowers it to safeguard electricity reliability, security, and quality, and to enforce operating codes and standards.

“Section 12.6.2 of the Grid Code for the Nigerian Electricity Transmission System requires all generating units to be fitted with fast-acting FGC that is capable of regulating turbine speed and adjusting power output based on frequency deviation exigencies, i.e., primary control,” the order stated.

The regulator also directed all grid-connected GenCos to adopt Grade Level 5 IoT-based meters by October 31, 2025. These meters must be capable of measuring key performance indicators such as active/reactive power, voltage, frequency, and power factor. The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) will oversee installation, integration, and real-time monitoring of these meters.

NERC recalled that the national grid suffered eight disturbances in 2024, leading to five full collapses and three partial outages. It attributed part of the failures to non-compliance by GenCos in activating FGC. With this directive, the commission aims to ensure stricter compliance, minimize system disturbances, and stabilize Nigeria’s electricity grid.