Don’t Replace, Repair Transformers, Poles — FG Tells Electricity Consumers

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has told electricity consumers in Nigeria that it is not their responsibility to purchase, replace or repair transformers, poles or other associated equipment used in the distribution of electricity.

FCCPC in a Facebook post a few hours ago insists that electricity distribution companies (DisCos) are required to replace damaged transformers within 48 hours of official notification.

The Federal Government agency further noted that in the event any particular DisCo is unable to repair or replace electricity equipment, residents may enter into a previous written agreement on terms of replacement with the DisCo in accordance with the NERC (Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission) Investment in Electricity Networks Regulation and get appropriate refund/compensation later.

Also, FCCPC stressed that customers can, though purchase metres using the MAP (Metre Asset Provider) framework, it insists DisCos are responsible for refunding or compensating customers who paid in advance for the meters. The cost of the metre, according to the agency, is to be reimbursed in 36 equal monthly payments using consumer-purchased energy credits (tokens).

FCCPC FULL STATEMENT

It is not the responsibility of the customer or the community to purchase, replace or repair transformers, poles or other associated equipment used in the distribution of electricity.

DisCos are required to replace damaged transformers within 48 hours of official notification. But if the DisCo is unable to do so, residents may enter into a previous written agreement on terms of replacement with the DisCo in accordance with the NERC Investment in Electricity Networks Regulation & get an appropriate refund/compensation.

Also, customers can purchase meters using the MAP framework. However, DisCos are responsible for refunding or compensating customers who paid in advance for the meters. The cost of the meter is to be reimbursed in 36 equal monthly payments using consumer-purchased energy credits (tokens).