The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that Band A customers receive at least 20 hours of electricity daily, with automatic compensation if distribution companies fail to meet this standard. This initiative aims to protect consumers and enhance transparency within the power sector.
During a recent Electricity Town Hall radio program, NERC officials discussed the Service-based Tariff in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) and outlined plans to gradually improve electricity supply for all customer bands. Engr. Olisa Chukwuma, a principal manager at NERC, explained that the framework ensures that payments correspond to service levels, classifying customers into five bands based on their supply guarantees.
Band A is guaranteed 20 hours, Band B 16 hours, Band C 12 hours, Band D 8 hours, and Band E 4 hours. Customers can verify their service bands through their electricity distribution companies’ websites. NERC tracks the performance of distribution companies (DisCos) daily and applies sanctions as needed, ensuring accountability.
If a DisCo fails to provide the required supply for over seven days, the feeder is downgraded to reflect actual service received. NERC monitors power delivery using data from various sources, including the Nigerian System Operator and independent verification.
The deputy manager, Gbenga Osho, noted that customers seeking improved service can make formal requests to their DisCos, although changes depend on infrastructure capacity. Simon Sunday, another NERC official, emphasized that band classifications are approved only after confirming that DisCos can deliver the promised supply hours.
Currently, Band A customers pay a tariff of N209.50 per kilowatt hour, which has been stable for nearly a year, reflecting ongoing government subsidy management. The overarching goal is to ensure fair pricing that aligns with service quality.