The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has penalized eight electricity distribution companies (DisCos) for failing to adhere to the approved billing limits for unmetered customers.
In a statement released yesterday, NERC listed the sanctioned DisCos as Abuja, Eko, Enugu, Ikeja, Jos, Kaduna, Kano, and Yola.
The Commission revealed that these companies overcharged customers, violating the energy consumption caps set for the third quarter of 2024 (July–September).
The penalties were imposed under Section 34(1)(d) of the Electricity Act, 2023.
NERC explained: “The public will recall that in 2020, we introduced the Capping of Estimated Bills through Order No: NERC/197/2020. This order, along with monthly energy caps, was designed to ensure that unmetered customers are billed in line with the consumption patterns of metered customers on the same feeder line.”
A review of billing practices for unmetered customers in Q3 2024 showed clear violations of these energy caps by the DisCos, according to the Commission.
As a result, NERC imposed a combined fine of ₦628.03 million, representing 5% of the total overbilling value during the specified period.
In addition, the affected DisCos have been instructed to provide equivalent credit adjustments to the overbilled customers by May 15, 2025, marking the end of the April 2025 billing cycle.
NERC reiterated its dedication to ensuring regulatory compliance and safeguarding the rights of electricity consumers across the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).