The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a stern warning to electricity distribution companies (DisCos) over reports of illegal practices involving the replacement of faulty and obsolete meters. According to the regulatory body, some DisCos have been coercing customers to apply and pay for new meters, an act that NERC says is a clear violation of its established rules.
In a statement released on Monday, NERC emphasized that such actions contravene the Commission’s Order No. NERC/246/2021, which governs the Structured Replacement of Faulty and Obsolete End-Use Customer Meters in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry.
NERC clarified that the replacement of faulty or obsolete meters falls under the purview of DisCos and must be carried out at no cost to the customer, provided the damage is not caused by the customer.
The regulatory body reiterated that no customer with a meter should be forcibly moved to estimated billing systems under any circumstance.
Customers are encouraged to report any violations of these rules by DisCos to the Commission for appropriate action.
In its statement, NERC reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding consumers’ rights in the electricity sector. It warned DisCos of regulatory penalties for failing to comply with its standards and urged all stakeholders to adhere to the established guidelines.
“The Commission restates its commitment to protect customers’ interests and rights by ensuring compliance with established regulatory standards and enforcing regulatory penalties for non-compliance by its licensees,” the statement read.
The warning comes amidst growing concerns over the practices of some DisCos, particularly in regions where customers have reported being charged for the replacement of outdated or malfunctioning meters.
The NERC’s directive aims to eliminate this burden on consumers and ensure fair and equitable treatment in the electricity supply industry.
For electricity consumers across Nigeria, the NERC’s stance is a significant step toward accountability and transparency in the sector.
Customers are advised to familiarize themselves with their rights and report any non-compliant practices to the Commission for swift action.
This development underscores the need for stricter regulatory oversight to curb exploitative practices in the electricity distribution network and protect the interests of Nigerian consumers.