Electricity customers who are wrongfully disconnected by Distribution Companies (DisCos) will now receive compensation equivalent to three months of their average electricity consumption, following a new directive by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
The commission said the compensation will apply for every day affected customers remain without power after being disconnected without following the approved procedures.
NERC disclosed that the new measures are part of efforts to strengthen consumer protection and improve compliance within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry.
The regulatory body also directed electricity distribution companies to repair or replace faulty meters within 48 hours after receiving complaints from customers.
It warned DisCos against imposing reconnection charges on customers who were disconnected without due process.
According to NERC, the new directives are aimed at helping consumers understand their rights and providing clearer steps for resolving disputes with electricity providers.
On electricity metering, the commission said customers who pay upfront for meters through the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme must have their meters installed within 10 days after completing payment.
It added that such customers are entitled to reimbursement through energy credits spread over a period of 120 months.
NERC stressed that the energy credits issued as reimbursement under the MAP scheme cannot be used to offset existing electricity debts.
The commission further clarified that meters provided under the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) and Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP) are free for customers.
It said any customer who pays for meters under the two intervention programmes is entitled to a full refund.
The latest directives form part of NERC’s ongoing efforts to improve electricity service delivery, promote accountability among DisCos and ensure that consumers are protected from unfair practices in the power sector.
