The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a stern directive to electricity distribution companies (DisCos) to replace faulty or obsolete meters at no cost to customers. This statement comes amid reports that some DisCos have asked customers to pay for meter replacements, an action that directly violates NERC’s Order No. NERC/246/2021.
The Order mandates that DisCos bear the responsibility of replacing defective or outdated meters, provided the issues are not caused by customers. It also prohibits the migration of metered customers to estimated billing.
“NERC is aware that some Distribution Companies have instructed customers to apply and pay for the replacement of faulty and obsolete meters within their franchise areas. This instruction contravenes the Commission’s regulations. If any customer’s meter is deemed obsolete or faulty, it is the DisCo’s responsibility to replace it free of charge,” the Commission emphasised in its statement.
The directive follows recent announcements by Ikeja Electric Distribution Company (IKEDC) and Eko Electric Distribution Company (EKEDC), declaring the discontinuation of support for Unistar prepaid meters due to technological upgrades and token identifier (TID) rollover issues. These meters, deployed over a decade ago, were set to become obsolete after November 14, 2024.
NERC’s directive aims to ensure fair treatment for electricity consumers and protect them from unwarranted costs. Customers are encouraged to report any non-compliance by DisCos through NERC’s official communication channels.
Phone: 07000 CALL NERC (07000 2255 6372),0201 344 4331, 0908 899 9244
Email: complaints@nerc.gov.ng
NERC said It remains committed to upholding regulatory standards and safeguarding the rights of electricity consumers. The Commission has warned that penalties will be enforced against any DisCo found violating its directives.