Electricity distribution companies (DisCos) have received a strong warning from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) not to force consumers with malfunctioning meters to use the estimated billing system. The regulator stressed that these kinds of acts are against its orders and infringe upon the rights of customers.
In a statement issued on Monday, November 18, NERC voiced its alarm about rumors that certain DisCos are telling consumers to apply for and cover the cost of replacing damaged or outdated meters in their franchise areas.
“The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission is aware that some Distribution Companies (DisCos) have instructed customers to apply and pay for the replacement of faulty and obsolete meters within their franchise areas,” the statement read.
The commission emphasized that this approach violates its Order No. NERC/246/2021, which regulates the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry’s (NESI) Structured Replacement of Faulty & Obsolete End-use Customer Meters.
The regulation states that, as long as the client did not cause the damage, the DisCos are responsible for replacing any defective or outdated meters at no additional cost to the customer. Customers with functional meters cannot be forced to switch to the estimated billing regime, according to the order.
NERC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and enforcing compliance among its licensees. “The Commission is determined to protect customers’ interests by ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and will impose penalties on non-compliant licensees,” the statement added.
Consumers have been asked to use the channels that NERC has set up to report any instances of non-compliance. This caution comes as Nigeria’s energy industry continues to face difficulties, with consumers still having serious worries about meter replacement and billing transparency.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli