The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, has issued a directive to electricity distribution companies, Discos, to downgrade customers in the Band A category if they fail to provide the promised 20 hours of electricity supply.

This was disclosed by NERC’s Commissioner for Licensing and Legal, Dafe Akpeneye, during an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief.

Akpeneye emphasized that the downgrade is not optional for Discos. If they cannot meet the required 20-hour daily supply for Band A customers, they must reclassify such customers to lower service band.

“Discos must downgrade customers to match what they can supply if they fail to meet Band A requirements,” he said.

Akpeneye highlighted that Discos are constrained by what is available on the national grid. When the grid supply falls short, Discos cannot fulfill their commitments, necessitating customer reclassification.

“The grid has improved, and we hope supply can increase, but if it doesn’t, downgrades are inevitable,” he added.

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NERC clarified that Nigerian states now have constitutional powers to regulate electricity generation, transmission, and distribution within their territories. Akpeneye pointed to Oyo State’s proactive steps in engaging NERC and international bodies for capacity building as an example of states exercising their newfound authority.

NERC has a structured process to address customer grievances. Complaints must first be lodged with the Discos. If unresolved within a set timeframe, customers can escalate the issue to NERC’s consumer forum for mediation.

This move by NERC aims to ensure that electricity supply commitments are realistic and enforceable, while also protecting consumers and enabling states to play a more significant role in the sector.

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