NERC hints at tariff increase amid economic woes

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has hinted at a possible upward review of electricity tariffs as part of efforts to improve power supply and service delivery across the country.

The commission disclosed this in a post shared on its official X account on Monday, assuring consumers that the planned review would be aimed at improving service quality while protecting customer rights.

Although the commission did not announce new tariff rates, it stated that consumers deserved “satisfaction and accurate information” regarding any increase, adding that there would be no hidden charges or arbitrary disconnection of electricity supply.

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“We are bringing the electricity tariff closer to you to improve your quality of life, and we assure you of continued protection of your rights every day,” the commission stated.

NERC also said it was working towards ensuring access to “quality and affordable electricity” while addressing challenges associated with the current payment structure and inconsistent power supply.

The regulator noted that the existing “one-size-fits-all” billing system had limitations, particularly in situations where consumers experience irregular electricity supply.

The latest development comes amid growing public concern over the cost of electricity and persistent complaints about inadequate power supply despite previous tariff increases.

In April 2024, NERC approved a major tariff increase for Band A customers, raising electricity rates from about N68 per kilowatt-hour to N225 per kilowatt-hour for consumers receiving at least 20 hours of electricity daily.

The increase affected roughly 15 per cent of electricity consumers nationwide and was later adjusted slightly downward to about N206.80/kWh in May 2024 before some distribution companies implemented minor increases to around N209.50/kWh in July of the same year.

However, many consumers have continued to complain that the quality and duration of electricity supply have not matched the increased tariffs.