The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a stern warning to electricity distribution companies (Discos) not to force customers with faulty meters into the estimated billing regime. The commission further mandated that all faulty or outdated prepaid meters be replaced free of charge, in line with the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry Act.
This new directive follows recent reports of certain Discos, including Ikeja Electric Plc and Eko Electricity Distribution Company, requiring customers to replace their Unistar prepaid meters by November 14, 2024. Failure to do so would result in being moved into the estimated billing category, which sparked backlash among consumers. Many Nigerians expressed frustration over the increased cost of meter replacements, especially amid a difficult economic climate marked by high inflation and rising energy costs.
NERC responded to the growing concerns by affirming that it is the responsibility of Discos, not customers, to replace faulty or outdated meters. The commission stressed that customers should not be forced into estimated billing simply due to faulty meters. According to NERC, the law is clear: it is the obligation of the Discos to replace any faulty or obsolete meters free of charge, as long as the fault was not caused by the customer.
The statement from NERC clarified that this policy is in accordance with Order No. NERC/246/2021, which outlines the structured replacement of faulty and obsolete end-use customer meters in the Nigerian electricity supply sector. The regulatory body emphasized that customers have the right to demand compensation when their meters are faulty, and the Discos are responsible for ensuring that the meter is replaced promptly at no cost to the consumer.
NERC also highlighted the importance of consumers being aware of their rights under the law, encouraging those affected to report any violations by Discos. In cases where customers are being forced to pay for meter replacements or are moved into estimated billing, NERC urged them to reach out through its dedicated phone lines and email addresses.
The regulatory body provided the following contact details for customer complaints:
In addition to addressing consumer complaints, NERC reiterated its commitment to protecting the interests of electricity customers in Nigeria. The commission has pledged to enforce compliance with the established regulatory standards and take strong action against any Discos that fail to adhere to the rules. This move is part of NERC’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the rights of electricity consumers and ensure fair treatment across the industry.
The controversy surrounding the forced migration to estimated billing and the cost of meter replacements comes at a time when many Nigerians are struggling with the economic fallout of inflation and rising energy costs. As a result, NERC’s intervention aims to ease the financial burden on consumers while holding Discos accountable for their obligations.
