The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has sanctioned eight Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) for failing to comply with monthly energy caps issued between July and September 2024. The affected DisCos are Abuja, Eko, Enugu, Ikeja, Jos, Kaduna, Kano, and Yola. NERC imposed fines totaling N628,031,583.94, equivalent to 5% of the gross overbilling value.

In 2020, NERC issued the Order on Capping of Estimated Bills to align estimated bills for unmetered customers with measured consumption of metered customers on the same supply feeder. However, a review of DisCos’ billing for July-September 2024 revealed non-compliance with monthly energy caps.

NERC has therefore directed the non-compliant DisCos to issue credit adjustments to affected customers by May 15, 2025, the end of the April 2025 billing cycle. This move aims to rectify the overbilling issue and ensure consumers are not unfairly charged.

The Commission reaffirms its commitment to regulatory compliance and consumer protection within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry. This development underscores NERC’s efforts to enforce regulations and safeguard consumer interests.

Meanwhile, this sanction may have implications for the electricity distribution sector, emphasizing the importance of adherence to regulatory guidelines. NERC’s actions demonstrate its dedication to maintaining industry standards and protecting consumers from unfair practices