By Mary Izuaka

 

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued the Mini-Grid Regulations 2026 to guide the development, operation, and regulation of mini-grids in Nigeria.

In a public notice on Monday, the commission said the regulatory document, numbered NERC-R-001-2026, provides a comprehensive framework for the deployment and management of mini-grids.

This it said aimed to expand electricity access, especially in unserved and underserved areas, while ensuring safety, fairness, and investment protection.

Mini-grids are small-scale, integrated electricity generation and distribution systems that operate independently of the national grid to serve localised communities.

Highlights of the Regulation

The regulation, according to NERC, applies to isolated mini-grids that operate independently of distribution company (DisCo) networks, up to 5 megawatts (MW); and interconnected mini-grids which are connected to and coordinated with existing distribution networks, up to 10MW.

This the commission said covers developers, operators, distribution companies, and host communities.

It also aligns with the Electricity Act 2023 and accommodates state-level regulation where applicable.

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NERC said mini-grids below 100 kilowatts (kW) can be registered, but those above 100kW require a permit from the commission.

“NERC grants Permits through an application process within 30 business days.”

Operators are required to submit annual reports for mini-grids below 1MW and quarterly reports for those above 1MW. NERC will also conducts ongoing monitoring and may publish sector data.

“The regulation aims to accelerate rural electrification, attract private investment, ensure fair tariffs and consumer protection, as well as promote coordination between mini-grid developers and DisCos,” the commission said.