According to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (“NERC”) Consultation Paper (August 2022) on the proposed review of Regulations for Mini-Grids 2016 (“the regulation”), engagements between NERC and the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (“NESP”) on ways to enhance the regulatory framework for Mini-grids in Nigeria identified a need to shift towards a portfolio approach to Mini-grid applications whereby mini-grids developers can simultaneously apply for mini-grid permits for multiple isolated or interconnected sites. Additionally, the engagements also highlighted the need for proper monitoring and evaluation activities to track the development of the off-grid sector which is primed for major expansion and growth in the short-to-medium term.
Based on the above, NERC is desirous of reviewing the Mini-grids Regulations 2016, and performing the following –
1. A review of the regulation to allow for submission of simultaneous applications for portfolio of mini-grid sites.
2. To define what portfolio of interconnected mini-grids and isolated mini-grids shall mean.
3. To further allow for submission of a single tariff application for a portfolio of mini-grid sites.
4. To improve the quality and frequency of monitoring and evaluation reporting for mini-grid installations across Nigeria.
