Load shedding is a reality for many electricity consumers, especially in regions where power demand exceeds supply. To manage power outages effectively, it's crucial to stay updated on your local load shedding schedule based on your Distribution Company (DISCO).
This guide will help you track load shedding schedules by DISCO, understand how they work, and provide backup power solutions to minimize disruption.
Table of Contents
What is Load Shedding?
Load shedding is a controlled power shutdown implemented by electricity providers to prevent a total grid collapse. When demand surpasses supply, DISCOs rotate outages across different areas to balance the system.
Why Does Load Shedding Happen?
- High electricity demand (especially during peak hours)
- Insufficient power generation
- Grid maintenance and failures
- Fuel shortages (gas, water, or coal shortages affecting power plants)
How to Check Load Shedding Schedules by DISCO
Each DISCO (Distribution Company) publishes load shedding schedules based on feeder codes or regions. Here's how to find yours:
1. Know Your DISCO
Different regions are managed by different DISCOs. Identify yours:
| DISCO Name | Region Covered |
|---|---|
| IESA (Ibadan Electricity) | Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Kwara, Ekiti |
| Eko DISCO | Lagos (Island, Badagry, Lekki, Ajah) |
| IKEDC (Ikeja Electric) | Lagos Mainland, Ikeja, Oshodi |
| AEDC (Abuja Electricity) | Abuja, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa |
| KEDCO (Kano Electricity) | Kano, Katsina, Jigawa |
| PHED (Port Harcourt Electricity) | Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross River, Akwa Ibom |
2. Visit Your DISCO's Official Website or Social Media
Most DISCOs update load shedding schedules on:
- Official websites (e.g., Ikeja Electric)
- Twitter/X, Facebook pages
- Mobile apps (some DISCOs have dedicated apps)
3. Check via SMS or USSD Codes
Some DISCOs provide outage alerts via SMS. For example:
- IKEDC: Text "OUTAGE [Your Meter Number]" to a designated number
- Eko DISCO: Dial USSD code for updates
How to Prepare for Load Shedding
Since power cuts are unavoidable, here's how to minimize disruption:
1. Invest in Backup Power Solutions
- Inverters & Batteries – Store power during outages
- Generators – Diesel or petrol-powered (ensure proper ventilation)
- Solar Power Systems – Sustainable long-term solution
Pro Tip:
When using generators, always operate them in well-ventilated areas to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
2. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
- Switch to LED bulbs
- Unplug devices when not in use
- Use gas cookers instead of electric stoves
3. Plan Your Daily Activities
- Charge phones/laptops before outages
- Schedule work/meetings during power availability
- Keep flashlights and power banks ready
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is my area experiencing more load shedding than others?
A: Some areas are on high-priority feeders (hospitals, industries) and experience fewer cuts, while residential areas may face longer outages.
Q: Can I get compensated for frequent outages?
A: NERC mandates DISCOs to compensate customers for prolonged outages. Check their Service-Based Tariff (SBT) policy.
Q: How long do load shedding stages last?
A: It varies—some outages last 2-4 hours, while severe cases may extend longer.
Final Thoughts
Load shedding is inconvenient, but staying informed via your DISCO's schedule helps you plan better. Invest in backup power, reduce energy waste, and follow real-time updates to minimize disruptions.
Got questions?
Drop them in the comments, and we'll help you out!
