NERC Orders DisCos to Replace Faulty Meters Free of Charge

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has reiterated that it is the responsibility of electricity distribution companies (DisCos) to replace faulty and outdated meters at no cost to customers. The announcement was made in a public notice issued on Monday, following concerns that some DisCos have been instructing customers to pay for the replacement of defective meters within their service areas.

NERC’s statement warned that these practices violate the Commission’s Order No. NERC/246/2021, which mandates the structured replacement of faulty and obsolete meters in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry. The order makes clear that customers should not be subjected to estimated billing when their meters are faulty or outdated, and any replacement should be handled by the DisCos at no cost to the customer.

The Commission stated that the based on the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry Act, DisCos are responsible for replacing prepaid meters that are either faulty or obsolete, as long as the damage was not caused by the customer.

“If any customer’s meter is adjudged by any DisCo to be obsolete or faulty, it is the responsibility of the DisCo to replace the meter free of charge,” NERC stated, urging customers to report any non-compliance with the order. The Commission also affirmed its commitment to protecting customer rights, warning that DisCos found in violation of the regulations could face regulatory penalties.

NERC’s directive seeks to address growing concerns about meter malfunctions, which have often led to unfair estimated billing practices, and ensure that consumers are not financially burdened by the replacement of defective meters. The Commission has called on customers to report any violations by their DisCos to safeguard their interests.