This post has already been read at least 11112 times!

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has wielded its regulatory hammer against eight electricity distribution companies (DisCos), imposing a hefty fine of N628,031,583.94 for failing to comply with monthly energy caps in the third quarter of 2024.

In a statement issued yesterday, NERC named Abuja, Eko, Enugu, Ikeja, Jos, Kaduna, Kano, and Yola DisCos as violators of the commission’s 2020 Order on Capping of Estimated Bills (Order No: NERC/197/2020). The regulation was designed to bring estimated bills for unmetered customers in line with the actual consumption recorded by metered users on the same feeder.

A review of billing data from July to September 2024 revealed widespread overbilling of unmetered customers, contrary to prescribed energy caps. NERC’s fine represents five per cent of the total gross overbilling during this period.

“The non-compliant DisCos have been sanctioned to pay fines amounting to six hundred and twenty-eight million, thirty-one thousand, five hundred and eighty-three naira and ninety-four kobo (N628,031,583.94),” the commission said in its statement. Additionally, NERC has mandated the affected utilities to issue credit adjustments to impacted customers by May 15, 2025.

Enugu State Boosts Power Supply with New 5MW Gas Plant Licence

Meanwhile, in an ambitious effort to fortify its electricity infrastructure, the Enugu State Electricity Commission (EERC) has issued a 5MW power generation licence to Tempo Power Solutions Limited. This marks a significant step toward improved energy supply in the state, pushing EERC’s total power generation licences to 15MW since the October 2024 transition of regulatory oversight from NERC to EERC.

Speaking at the licence issuance ceremony yesterday, EERC Chairman and CEO Chijioke Okonkwo emphasized the confidence investors have in Enugu’s electricity sector. “This milestone reflects the enabling environment we’ve created for the electricity business to thrive. Tempo Power’s proactive engagement is a model for strategic partnerships.”

Tempo Power’s Executive Director, Collins Kalabare, lauded Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah’s visionary leadership, highlighting the governor’s role in providing a framework for states to address Nigeria’s energy challenges. He also praised EERC’s professionalism and transparency in facilitating private-sector investments.

As Tempo Power prepares to deploy its gas-fired plant, stakeholders anticipate substantial progress in meeting Enugu’s energy demands and fostering sustainable development in the electricity sector.

This post has already been read at least 11112 times!