Discos Reject 1,769MW of Electricity Amidst Nationwide Blackout

In the midst of a pervasive blackout and the escalating power crisis in Nigeria, power distribution companies (Discos) have rejected a staggering 1,769.91 megawatts of electricity between February 1 and 14, 2024. Despite the dire energy situation, most Discos failed to utilize their allocated power supply, exacerbating the country’s electricity woes.

Data obtained from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) in Abuja on Monday revealed that, during this period, some Discos received surplus electricity load allocation but failed to fully exploit it. Nigeria’s power crisis, worsening since January, prompted Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, to summon certain Discos and TCN officials to account for the deteriorating power supply in their respective regions.

Investigations by the power ministry uncovered deliberate rejection of electricity by some distribution companies. Adelabu stated that findings indicated deliberate refusal to accept power supply, coupled with power line damage by vandals in Abuja, Benin, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan regions.

Analysis of the daily load summary for power distribution companies in the first two weeks of February revealed alarming statistics. Seven Discos failed to utilize 128.62MW on February 1, while others, including Benin, Ibadan, Port Harcourt, and Yola, exceeded their load allocation by 61.91MW. The trend continued, with widespread rejection and excess load allocations observed throughout the second week of February.

In response to the escalating crisis, Minister Adelabu ordered the CEOs of Abuja and Ibadan Discos, along with TCN representatives, to attend a meeting this week. The aim is to address and find lasting solutions to the worsening electricity supply in their regions. Adelabu emphasized that non-performing Discos would face scrutiny over their performance as reports on the power situation in their regions continue to surface.

Despite gas shortages, the Ministry of Power has intensified efforts to improve performance, with recent power generation exceeding 4,000MW. The minister expects these measures to enhance power supply nationwide, addressing the disparities experienced in some regions.