Emmanuel OchayiSeveral electricity distribution companies, commonly known as DisCos, are facing challenges in providing the mandated 20-hour power supply to customers on Band A feeders.
This failure has led to apologies and explanations from DisCos across various regions of Nigeria.
The Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) and Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) were among those issuing apologies.
BEDC cited technical faults and load shedding by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) as reasons for power disruptions. KEDCO specifically mentioned a circuit breaker issue affecting the 33KV Gaskiya feeder.
Similarly, the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) expressed regret for not meeting the expected supply hours due to TCN system outages and tripping on IBEDC feeders.
Meanwhile, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) attributed prolonged outages in parts of the Federal Capital Territory to technical faults at the Gwagwalada Transmission Station.
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DisCos’ struggles come amidst new directives from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), requiring Band A customers to receive a minimum of 20 hours of electricity daily. Failure to meet this standard could result in downgrading to other bands based on supply hours.
Despite these directives, some customers claim they have not been receiving the stipulated supply hours since April 3 when the new tariff was announced. Additionally, complaints have arisen from customers in Bands B to E regarding overbilling by their service providers.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has issued warnings of sanctions against erring DisCos, while NERC urges customers to report non-compliance.
In response to the situation, a representative from KEDCO stated, “We understand the inconvenience that comes with unstable power, and we deeply regret any inconvenience it has caused. The reason behind the inconsistency in supply on the 33KV Gaskiya feeder was due to a circuit breaker issue.”
Similarly, IBEDC stated, “We sincerely apologise for our inability to deliver the estimated hours of supply on your feeder. This was due to TCN system outages and tripping on IBEDC feeders.”
While DisCos continue to grapple with technical challenges, customers remain hopeful for improved service delivery and adherence to regulatory standards.
