The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued permits to several companies, including Golden Penny Power Limited and MTN Communications Nigeria Limited, for mini-grid electricity generation. This move aims to promote renewable energy and increase power supply in the country.

In the first quarter of 2024, NERC issued nine new off-grid generation licenses with a gross capacity of 109.69 megawatts and three new trading licenses.

Golden Penny Power Limited received a license to build six off-grid gas plants in four states, with a total capacity of 100MW. MTN was granted a permit to build four captive generation plants in Lagos State, with a 15.94MW capacity.

Other companies, including SweetCo Foods Limited and African Steel Mills Nigeria Limited, were also permitted to generate captive power. Captive power generation permits allow entities to own and maintain power plants for personal consumption, not for sale to third parties.

NERC also issued permits and registration certificates for mini-grid development, encouraging the use of renewable energy. The commission issued three mini-grid permits and two registration certificates in the first quarter of 2024.

Additionally, NERC certified six Meter Service Providers, including four meter installers and two meter manufacturers. The commission also issued one regulation and 36 new orders to guide the activities of licensees.

This development is expected to boost Nigeria’s power supply and promote the use of renewable energy. The issuance of permits and licenses demonstrates NERC’s commitment to encouraging private sector participation in the power sector.