The Nigerian electricity regulatory commission (NERC) has slapped the Abuja electricity distribution Plc (AEDC) with a hefty fine of two hundred million naira (₦200,000,000) for failing to adhere to its tariff guidelines, creating a stir among consumers and industry stakeholders alike.
The fine comes in the wake of the supplementary order to the multi-year tariff order for 2024, issued on April 3rd, 2024, which AEDC has been found in violation of.
In a detailed correspondence released by NERC, it was revealed that AEDC improperly applied an approved tariff increase across all customer bands, contrary to the specific directive that only customers in band “A” were subject to the rate hike.
The oversight has not only led to undue charges for customers in bands “B” to “E” but has also called into question the operational compliance and fairness standards maintained by one of the country’s leading electricity distribution companies.
AEDC is asked to:
1. Reimburse all customers in Bands B, C, D and E respectively that were billed above the allowed customer categories/tariff bands provided in the Order.
2. Reimburse through the provision of the balance of customer tokens that the affected customers would be entitled to receive at the applicable rates and all token reimbursements shall be issued to the affected customers by 11 April 2024.
3. Pay the sum of ₦200,000,000.00 (Two Hundred Million Naira) as a fine for the flagrant breach of the Commission’s Order.
4. File evidence of compliance with the directives in a & c with the Commission by 12th of April 2024.
The NERC said the action by the Commission underscores its commitment to protecting consumer rights and ensuring equitable practices within Nigeria’s electricity sector.
