NERC Slams N628m Fine On Eight DisCos For Overbilling Unmetered Customers

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has imposed a total fine of N628 million on eight electricity distribution companies (DisCos) for exceeding the approved energy caps for unmetered customers in the third quarter of 2024.

The affected DisCos include Abuja, Eko, Enugu, Ikeja, Jos, Kaduna, Kano, and Yola. According to a statement released by the commission on Thursday, the sanctions cover violations that occurred between July and September 2024.

NERC stated that the penalties were issued in accordance with Section 34(1)(d) of the Electricity Act, 2023, which empowers the commission to enforce compliance and protect consumer rights in the Nigerian electricity supply industry.

In addition to the fines, the DisCos are mandated to issue credit adjustments to all impacted customers on or before May 15, 2025, as compensation for the billing infractions.

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“The Commission, in line with its regulatory powers, has taken disciplinary action against these DisCos for failing to adhere to the stipulated energy caps meant to safeguard unmetered consumers from arbitrary billing,” the statement read.

The energy caps were introduced to ensure fairness in billing customers who are yet to be provided with meters, pending the completion of the national metering program. NERC has reiterated its commitment to enforcing regulatory standards to promote transparency and accountability in the power sector.

This move is seen as part of broader efforts to improve service delivery and restore consumer confidence in the nation’s electricity system.