NERC Orders Discos to Downgrade Band A Customers If 20-Hour Power Supply Can’t Be Met
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has directed electricity distribution companies (Discos) to downgrade customers in the Band A category if they are unable to provide the promised 20 hours of electricity. This order was issued by NERC’s Commissioner for Licensing and Legal, Dafe Apkeneye, in an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Friday.
Apkeneye stated that if Discos cannot meet the 20-hour supply commitment for Band A customers, they must downgrade these customers to a supply level they can sustain. He emphasized that this decision is not optional for the customer and that Discos must apply for the necessary adjustments to ensure they can meet the required supply.
“If Discos can’t supply such customers, the discos have to downgrade such customers to meet what they can provide,” Apkeneye said. He clarified that the distribution companies can only supply what is available on the national grid and that when the grid cannot meet supply demands, customers must be downgraded accordingly. However, he expressed hope that improvements in grid supply would enhance electricity availability in the future.
In addition to addressing customer downgrades, Apkeneye also discussed the recent shift in regulatory oversight, where states are now empowered by the Nigerian constitution to handle electricity generation, transmission, and distribution within their territories. This allows states to establish and regulate their own electricity markets without federal restrictions. Apkeneye highlighted that states, including Oyo State, have already started building capacity by collaborating with international regulatory bodies and undergoing training to improve their understanding of electricity regulation.
Regarding customer complaints, NERC’s regulations provide a structured process for addressing issues. Apkeneye explained that before escalating a complaint to NERC, customers must first seek resolution with their Discos. If the issue remains unresolved, customers can approach NERC’s consumer forum for mediation. He reassured that NERC strives to ensure fair outcomes for customers, including cases of overbilling or illegal meter bypassing.
As Nigeria continues to face electricity supply challenges, NERC’s directives aim to enforce better service standards while empowering states to take a more active role in the energy sector.
