NERC Directs 11 DisCos to Refund Customers Over New Tariff

• NERC directed 11 DisCos to refund customers wrongly billed at the new tariff rate, ensuring transparency and customer satisfaction
• DisCos have until April 11, 2024, to issue refunds via energy tokens and must submit evidence of compliance by April 12

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has directed 11 electricity distribution companies (DisCos) to refund customers who were incorrectly billed at the new tariff rate.

According to a document signed by Mr. Abba Terab, the commission’s DGM of Market Competition and Rates, DisCos have until April 11, 2024, to execute the refunds via energy tokens. Additionally, DisCos must submit evidence of compliance with the directive by April 12.

NERC emphasized the importance of clarity and transparency in this process, instructing DisCos to provide detailed information to affected customers.

The directive outlined specific actions for DisCos to follow, including maintaining only the newly approved Band A feeders for vending to prepaid customers and billing for postpaid customers. DisCos must also publish the schedule of approved Band A feeders affected by the rate review on their websites.

Furthermore, DisCos must establish a portal on their websites by April 10, 2024, allowing customers to check their current Bands by entering their meter or account numbers.

Customers who were wrongly billed at the new rate must receive refunds through energy tokens by April 11, 2024. DisCos must then submit evidence of compliance to the Commission by April 12, 2024.

NERC assured stakeholders that it would monitor compliance with these requirements and provide support as needed to ensure the smooth implementation of the directive.