The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has increased fines for power consumers found guilty of meter manipulation and unauthorised connections.
Non-maximum demand (Non-MD) customers with single-phase meters will be subject to a fine of ₦100,000 for a first offence and ₦150,000 for consecutive offences under the modified rule, which went into effect on January 22, 2025.
Penalties for non-MD customers using three-phase meters are ₦300,000 for repeated infractions and ₦200,000 for the first offence.
Customers who violate maximum demand (MD) policies may be charged 450% of their most recent recorded consumption for the first offence and 600% for successive offences.
Furthermore, reconnection fees of ₦10,000 for non-MD customers and ₦50,000 for MD consumers have been set.
According to NERC, if a Distribution Company (DisCo) does not reconnect a customer within 48 hours of receiving payment, the consumer shall receive energy credit equal to 100% of their daily usage.
This initiative aims to increase revenue collection for DisCos, reduce electricity theft, and enhance overall service delivery.
