In Nigeria Senate orders NERC to abolish fixed charges on electricity

Bothered by the high rate of electricity tariff and arbitrary estimated billing, the Senate has ordered a stoppage of the charges.

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The motion which was moved by Senator Sam Egwu was adopted by his colleagues.

Senator Sam Egwu said "The high tariff being charged by DISCOs does not make provision for payment of only electricity that is consumed even though bills are dished out without commensurate services being offered by the distribution companies."

Adding that "I am also concerned that even those that have the prepaid meters are being billed a fixed rate of about N700 a month irrespective of whether or not the person consumes electricity."

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"It is disturbing that by the avalanche of complaints by electricity consumers about the unwholesome practice of the DISCOs which fall short of standards established by NERC as well as global best practices, thereby failing in the discharge of their contractural obligations to Nigerian public," egwu said.

Senators Danjuma Goje and Nelson Effiong also called for the review of the Power Reform Act.

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The Senate President on his part, said that the impact of the electricity firms were not visible.

According to the Tribune, "The Senate, in adopting the motion, said that the NERC should immediately ensure the abolition of fixed charges being collected from electricity consumers across the country."