NERC Releases Email, Phone Number For Electricity Consumers To Report DisCos Forcing Them To Buy Transformers, Poles

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has urged electricity consumers to report any distribution companies (DisCos) that fail to supply necessary equipment, such as cables and transformers.

The commission sounded this warning following reports that some DisCos were compelling consumers and communities to carry the cost of providing essential equipment.

NERC cautioned consumers against purchasing transformers without a formal agreement with distribution companies.

It would be recalled that earlier this year, NERC imposed a penalty of N10.5 billion on the 11 DisCos operating in the country for failing to adhere to the regulations concerning the capping of estimated bills for customers without meters.

In a social media post on Saturday, NERC emphasized that DisCos are responsible for providing all essential electricity infrastructure, including poles, to consumers. NERC said: “It is the duty of your DisCo to provide transformers, cables and poles.

“If your DisCo is asking you to provide any of these, kindly reach out to this dedicated email and phone number set-up to address these issues; Email:idn@nerc.gov.ng Phone No.:07074865354.” NERC also urged the public to reach out with any complaints by contacting its call center at 02013444331 or 09088999244, or by emailing complaints@nerc.gov.ng.

Earlier, NERC cautioned consumers against purchasing transformers without a formal agreement with distribution companies.

Aisha Mahmud, NERC’s Commissioner for Customer Affairs, clarified that customers are not responsible for supplying transformers for DisCos.

Mahmud added that if customers do need to be involved, a formal undertaking must be signed between them and the DisCos.

Additionally, NERC advised customers to inform the relevant distribution company of any unpaid electricity bills before moving into a new property.

Recently, NERC mandated that electricity distribution firms replace meters that are being phased out as a result of a meter upgrade.