● Ferdy Agu
The Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) has issued a strong warning to meter installers and service providers against demanding payments or materials from electricity consumers for the installation of meters and connection accessories. The Commission clarified that such requests are illegal and contrary to the Enugu State Electricity Law 2023 and the recently enacted Customer Service Standards and Protection Regulations 2024.
In a public service announcement released this morning and obtained by GMTNewsng, EERC emphasized that, under Sections 10 and 11 of its 2024 regulations, the responsibility for providing connection materials—including meters, wires, and circuit breakers—rests solely with the electricity service provider. Consumers, therefore, are not required to pay for these materials or bear the burden of procuring them.
“The materials required to effect connections, including meters and accessories from the nearest voltage network for each connection design stipulated under these regulations, shall be the responsibility of the service provider,” the Commission stated, citing Section 10 of the regulations.
EERC further explained that the type and quantity of connection materials needed depend on the distance between a customer’s premises and the nearest available electricity supply point. However, it maintained that these materials must be provided by the service provider as part of their obligations under the regulatory framework.
“All connections shall be in compliance with the procedures stipulated in these regulations. The service provider shall be responsible for the provision of connection materials in accordance with its standards and also responsible for the connection from the available supply to the customer’s metering point,” the statement added.
To ensure compliance, the Commission specifically directed its message to customers of Mainpower Electricity Distribution Company Limited, urging them not to yield to any demands from meter installers or agents asking for money or materials to install meters. It reassured residents of Enugu State that such practices are unlawful and that offenders will face appropriate regulatory sanctions.
EERC also encouraged customers to promptly report any violations, providing dedicated channels for lodging complaints. “Please do not hesitate to contact the Commission via email at info@eerc.en.gov.ng or call 09122642755 if any Mainpower meter installer(s) or agent(s) demand money or materials to install a meter,” the announcement read.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to consumer protection and a fair electricity distribution system, urging residents to stand firm against exploitation. It assured the public that regulatory measures were in place to hold service providers accountable and to ensure uninterrupted, transparent electricity services across Enugu State.
By taking this proactive step, EERC is reinforcing its role as a people-centered regulator committed to safeguarding the rights of electricity consumers while ensuring compliance with state electricity laws and regulations. GMTNewsng
