NERC authorises DisCos to sue destroyers of power facilities

From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to distribution companies (DisCos), empowering them to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to facilitate legal action and enforcement against individuals or entities involved in unauthorised access to the electrical distribution infrastructure.

It also directed them to identify areas suspected of unauthorised access based on anomalies in consumption patterns, irregularities in billing, or other suspicious indicators.

Apart from conducting a comprehensive analysis of electricity consumption data, billing records, and other relevant information to detect any discrepancies or abnormalities indicating potential unauthorised access, the new SOP also encourages the DisCos to employ surveillance techniques to monitor suspicious activities or behaviours in suspected areas, gathering additional evidence as necessary.

In addition, they should physically inspect and examine meters in suspected areas for signs of tampering, illegal connections, or unauthorised modifications.

They should conduct integrity tests on suspected meters, capturing evidence of tampering through video and photographic documentation in the presence of the customer or their representative, as well as conduct field inspections to visually assess the condition of distribution infrastructure, including power lines, transformers, and distribution boxes, to identify any unauthorised connections or illegal activities.

“Distribution companies shall interview witnesses, residents, or local authorities to gather information about observed instances of unauthorised access or suspicious activities. Document all interviews conducted.

“Distribution companies shall employ advanced technologies, such as advanced metering infrastructure, data analytics, and monitoring systems, to detect abnormal consumption patterns and potential instances of unauthorised access.

“They shall ensure all legal and regulatory requirements, inspections and evidence-gathering and maintain process, including meter test results, witness statements, and any actions taken.

“Distribution companies shall issue a disconnection notice if meter tampering, bypass, or malfunction is confirmed, and they shall disconnect the customer’s premises after issuing a disconnection notice in accordance with established procedures.

“Besides, DisCos shall take actions against individuals. Following due process and regulations, implement appropriate penalties and legal entities found guilty of unauthorised access, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.”