The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) reported that grid-connected power plants operated at 86% of their available capacity in August 2026, generating 4,102 megawatts (MW) per hour despite persistent grid stability challenges. The findings, outlined in NERC’s August 2026 operational performance report, highlight both progress and systemic vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s energy sector. The average available capacity for power plants during the month stood at 4,758 MW, with 656 MW of potential generation left unutilized. This data underscores the complex interplay between operational efficiency and infrastructure limitations in the nation’s electricity supply chain.
NERC’s report revealed significant disparities in plant performance, with some facilities operating near full capacity while others struggled with underutilization. Kainji_1 led with a 98% load factor, generating 345 MW from 352 MW of available capacity, followed by Afam_2 at 99% (262 MW from 265 MW). Egbin_1 and Ihovbor_2 also performed strongly, operating at 96% and 92%, respectively. However, the report noted that several plants, including Afam_1 (67%) and Ikeja_1 (76%), operated far below their potential, raising questions about maintenance, fuel supply, or technical constraints.
Notably, Olorunsogo_1, Omoku_1, and Igbafо_1 achieved 100% utilization, producing 115 MW, 115 MW, and 115 MW, respectively. Other plants, such as Omotosho_1 (99%) and Dadin-Kowa_1 (98%), also demonstrated high efficiency. Conversely, Sapele_2, Alaoji_1, Geregu_2, and Ibom Power_1 recorded zero generation, while Olorunsogo_2 and Sapele_1 generated 87 MW and 25 MW, respectively, from higher available capacities. These variations reflect uneven infrastructure development and operational challenges across the country’s power sector.
Despite the overall 86% capacity utilization, NERC flagged critical grid stability issues. The average lower grid frequency reached 49.34 Hz, and the upper frequency hit 50.67 Hz, exceeding the prescribed range of 49.75–50.25 Hz. Similarly, grid voltage fluctuated between 302.29 kV (lower) and 349.68 kV (upper), surpassing the recommended 313.50–346.50 kV. These deviations risk damaging equipment and disrupting power supply, highlighting the need for improved grid management and investment in stabilization technologies.
The report also emphasized the public-interest implications of these findings. While the 86% utilization rate represents a step toward meeting growing energy demands, the frequency and voltage excursions threaten grid reliability. The 656 MW of unused capacity and the shutdown of several plants underscore systemic inefficiencies that could hinder economic growth and exacerbate power shortages. NERC’s data suggests that addressing these issues requires targeted interventions, including infrastructure upgrades, regulatory enforcement, and enhanced coordination among stakeholders.
NERC’s findings align with broader concerns about Nigeria’s energy sector. The commission has previously highlighted challenges such as fuel shortages, transmission bottlenecks, and underfunded maintenance. The August report adds to the pressure on policymakers to prioritize grid modernization and ensure that power generation aligns with national development goals. Without sustained investment, the gap between supply and demand may widen, further straining households and businesses reliant on an unstable electricity network.
The data also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s energy strategy. While some plants demonstrate high efficiency, the reliance on a few high-performing facilities to meet demand leaves the system vulnerable to disruptions. Experts warn that without a comprehensive approach to grid resilience, the nation’s energy security remains at risk. NERC’s report serves as a call to action for regulators, investors, and operators to collaborate on solutions that balance efficiency with reliability.
The August 2026 performance highlights both progress and persistent challenges in Nigeria’s power sector. While 86% capacity utilization marks a notable achievement, the grid stability issues and underutilized resources reveal the need for urgent reforms. As Nigeria seeks to expand its energy infrastructure, addressing these gaps will be critical to ensuring a stable, sustainable power supply for its growing population.