Eleven electricity distribution companies have applied to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Agency (NERC) for a review of electricity tariffs.
This was disclosed in a statement by the NERC on Friday.
According to the statement, the application by the 11 successor discos is predicated on the need to ensure the electricity rate is in sync with current macroeconomic dynamics.
The statement reads “Pursuant to Section 116 (1) and 2(a&b) of the Electricity Act 2023 and other extant rules, the eleven (11) successor electricity distribution companies (“DisCos”) have filed an application for rate review with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (“NERC” or the “Commission”).
“The request for rate review is premised on the need to incorporate changes in macroeconomic parameters and other factors affecting the quality of service, operations and sustainability of the companies.”
The statement also called on members of the public and stakeholders to add their comments o the rate review applications filed by the DisCos.
“Accordingly, the Commission hereby invites the general public for comments on the rate review applications by the distribution licensees.
“Interested stakeholders are advised to review and take into consideration the excerpts of the Rate Review Applications filed with the Commission by the respective licensees.”
It said the applications can be accessed on the Commission’s website and further stated that it will conduct a rate case hearing and extend participation to members of the public who are interested.
“As part of the rule-making process and in the exercise of the powers conferred by the Electricity Act, the Commission shall conduct a Rate Case Hearing on the applications prior to making a ruling.
“Any person wishing to participate in the proceedings as an intervenor should forward his/her application to tariff@nerc.gov.ng before the close of business on 20th July 2023.”
In June, a 40 per cent hike in electricity tariff was mooted to begin on July 1. However, pressure from the NLC made the distribution companies shelve the plan.
