By using this site, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.
Accept
Okay.ngOkay.ngOkay.ng
Font ResizerAa
  • News
    • Politics
  • Entertainment
  • Business & Economy
  • Sport
  • Tech
Reading: NERC Intensifies Fight Against Electricity Theft with New Penalties
Share
Font ResizerAa
Okay.ngOkay.ng
  • News
  • Entertainment
  • Business & Economy
  • Sport
  • Tech
Search
  • News
    • Politics
  • Entertainment
  • Business & Economy
  • Sport
  • Tech
Follow US
  • About Okay.ng
  • Advertising on Okay.ng
  • Contact Okay.ng
  • Careers
  • Meet the Team behind Okay.ng
  • Ownership and Funding of Okay.ng
  • Editorial Principles at Okay.ng
© OKN MEDIA PUBLISHING 2022 - All rights reserved
News

NERC Intensifies Fight Against Electricity Theft with New Penalties

Genesis Obong
By Genesis Obong
Published: February 19, 2025
Share
4 Min Read
NERC
NERC
SHARE

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has declared war on electricity theft, implementing stricter penalties for individuals and businesses caught bypassing meters. Effective January 22, 2025, a revised order replaces the 2017 regulations, introducing significantly higher fines for offenders. This move, announced on NERC’s X (formerly Twitter) account, underscores the commission’s commitment to curbing energy losses and ensuring fair billing practices.

This updated directive aligns with the Electricity Act 2023 and the Customer Protection Regulations (CPR) 2023, signalling a renewed focus on enforcement. The core objectives are threefold: minimising unauthorised electricity access, meter tampering, and bypass; establishing transparent reconnection procedures; and deterring future violations. Essentially, NERC aims to create a level playing field where everyone pays their fair share for the electricity they consume.

“The new order…strengthens enforcement against electricity theft and ensures compliance with metering regulations,” NERC stated. This decisive language reflects the commission’s determination to tackle a problem that has plagued the Nigerian power sector for years.

The financial implications for offenders are substantial. For non-Maximum Demand (MD) single-phase meters, first-time offenders will face a N100,000 fine, while subsequent offences will incur a N150,000 penalty. Those with non-MD three-phase meters will be subject to N200,000 and N300,000 fines for first and subsequent offences, respectively. These increased penalties serve as a powerful deterrent, signalling that electricity theft will no longer be tolerated.

- Advertisement -

Read Also: Nigeria to Hike Electricity Tariffs: A Necessary Evil?

The implications of this crackdown extend beyond financial penalties. By reducing energy losses, NERC aims to improve revenue collection for Distribution Companies (DisCos), which, in turn, can lead to enhanced service delivery for consumers. This, I believe, is a crucial step towards stabilizing the Nigerian power sector and ensuring a reliable electricity supply for all. As a news writer, I’ve seen firsthand how power challenges impact lives and businesses, and I’m hopeful these measures will bring positive change.

NERC has empowered DisCos to disconnect unauthorized connections without prior notice, emphasizing the urgency of compliance. Clear reconnection guidelines have also been established to ensure transparency and accountability. Furthermore, DisCos are mandated to launch public awareness campaigns, educating consumers about the consequences of meter tampering and the importance of legal connections. This proactive approach aims to foster a culture of compliance and discourage electricity theft.

The human angle here is significant. For honest consumers who diligently pay their bills, electricity theft translates to higher tariffs and unreliable service. These new measures offer a glimmer of hope that the burden will be shared more equitably. For businesses, a stable power supply is crucial for productivity and economic growth. By cracking down on theft, NERC is contributing to a more favourable business environment.

- Advertisement -

While the increased fines may seem harsh, they are a necessary step to address a pervasive issue. The long-term benefits of a more efficient and equitable electricity system will far outweigh the short-term discomfort. It’s a move that I, and many Nigerians, believe is long overdue.

Stay Updated on the Go with Our Latest News—Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!
TAGGED:DISCOsElectricity theftfinesmeter tamperingNERCPowerregulation
Share This Article
Facebook Whatsapp Whatsapp Telegram Email Copy Link Print
ByGenesis Obong
Follow:
Genesis Obong is a Journalist with relevant experience in Business, Finance and Economic matters in Nigeria and across the West African space.
Previous Article Dr. Adaeze Oreh Meet Dr. Adaeze Oreh: The Commissioner Driving Healthcare Excellence in Rivers State
Next Article Edwin Clark’s Final Words: ‘Don’t Give Up on Making Nigeria Better’ – Family

Connect with Okay on Social

FacebookLike
XFollow
InstagramFollow
TelegramFollow

Dollar/Naira Rates

Dollar to Naira Exchange Rate

Okay.ng Logo
Buy Rate ₦1,605.00
Sell Rate ₦1,620.00

Last updated: 3 days ago (June 3, 2025 2:33 pm)

Displayed rates are for informational purposes only and are subject to change.

USD/NGN Converter

- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -
Ad imageAd image
- Advertisement -
Ad imageAd image

Recent Posts

BREAKING: Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Mohammed Uwais, Passes Away at 89
News Top stories
Russia Launches Deadly Drone and Missile Strikes Across Ukraine Following Ukrainian Attacks on Russian Bomber Fleet
International
MTN Nigeria Doubles ICT Industry Average with 41.4% Female Workforce Representation
Top stories
Lagos Commuters Endure Severe Gridlock as Pre-Sallah Activities Paralyze Major Routes
News
Nigeria GDP Growth, Nigeria renewable energy
Sallah 2025: Tinubu’s Economic Optimism and Nationwide Security Measures Highlight Nigeria’s Eid Celebrations
News Top stories
- Advertisement -
Ad imageAd image

You May Also Like

News

Tinubu Warns Lagos, States Against Unauthorised Island Approvals, Vows to Revoke Encroachments

Muhammad A. Aliyu
Muhammad A. Aliyu
June 6, 2025
News

Shettima Inaugurates African Medical Centre of Excellence in Abuja, Hails New Era in African Healthcare

Muhammad A. Aliyu
Muhammad A. Aliyu
June 5, 2025
News

Tinubu Pledges Increased Infrastructure Funding, Calls for State-Federal Collaboration on Approvals

Oluwadara Akingbohungbe
Oluwadara Akingbohungbe
June 5, 2025
Okay.ngOkay.ng
Follow US
© OKN MEDIA PUBLISHING 2025 - All rights reserved
  • About Okay.ng
  • Advertising on Okay.ng
  • Contact Okay.ng
  • Careers
  • Meet the Team behind Okay.ng
  • Ownership and Funding of Okay.ng
  • Editorial Principles at Okay.ng
adbanner
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?