....CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE
By Emmanuel Kwada
In a firm directive aimed at bolstering electricity supply for premium customers, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has instructed electricity distribution companies (DisCos) to ensure Band A customers receive a minimum of 20 hours of power daily. Failure to comply will result in the downgrading of customers to match the DisCos’ supply capabilities.
Dafe Akpeneye, NERC’s commissioner for licensing and legal affairs, made the announcement during an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief. He emphasized that the responsibility for reliable service lies firmly with the DisCos, stating that if they are unable to provide consistent electricity to Band A clients, they must formally apply to downgrade these customers.
The DisCos need to make an application and ensure that they can adequately supply power to customers in Band A
“The DisCos need to make an application and ensure that they can adequately supply power to customers in Band A,” Akpeneye explained. “When they cannot meet these commitments, they have to downgrade such customers to align with what they can actually deliver.”
Acknowledging the ongoing challenges surrounding electricity supply, Akpeneye noted that the distribution of power is intrinsically linked to availability on the national grid. “When there is insufficient supply to the grid, the DisCos cannot meet their commitments,” he said, adding that recent improvements in the grid should lead to enhanced electricity availability.
When there is insufficient supply to the grid, the DisCos cannot meet their commitments
In addition to addressing customer supply issues, Akpeneye spoke about the increasing role of state governments in electricity generation and distribution. He highlighted that under the Nigerian constitution, states now possess the autonomy to establish and regulate their own electricity markets.
“States can now establish electricity markets and regulate them without restrictions,” he said. “This shift empowers states to manage their electricity generation, transmission, and distribution responsibilities effectively.”
Akpeneye further mentioned that various states are proactive in building their capacities. For example, Oyo State has engaged with NERC to learn about regulatory processes and has undertaken training with international bodies. “The states are going to build capacity, learn, and grow,” he remarked.
The complaint process has been working well
For consumers, Akpeneye reiterated the importance of the complaint redress mechanism. He indicated that customers should first approach their respective DisCos with grievances and escalate unresolved issues to NERC.
“The complaint process has been working well,” he stated. “Where there are instances of overbilling or other discrepancies, we ensure that customers receive fair resolutions. However, we also address cases of meter bypass appropriately.”
In a reminder of their obligations, NERC also clarified that DisCos are mandated to replace faulty or obsolete customer meters at no additional cost. This commitment aims to restore consumer confidence in the electricity distribution system as Nigeria continues its quest for stable and reliable power supply.
As the regulatory landscape evolves, NERC’s directives signal a determined effort to enhance electricity delivery and empower state governments in the utility sector, aimed ultimately at providing Nigerians with the reliable energy they need.
Read Also: BREAKING: Supreme Court Nullifies National Lottery Act, Rules in Favor of State Control
