Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission Issues Consumer Guidelines on Bill Recovery
The Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC) has announced that power supply licensees are prohibited from recovering charges that are over 12 months old. This decision is part of the commission’s initiative to educate electricity consumers about their rights and promote transparency in billing practices.
In a consumer awareness message shared on official social media channels, LASERC stated that customers should not be compelled to pay for charges exceeding 12 months, with exceptions only made for cases involving meter tampering, illegal usage of electricity, or obstruction of meter readings.
LASERC urged consumers to familiarize themselves with their rights under the electricity regulatory framework, emphasizing the importance of being informed and vigilant. The commission underscored that the provisions related to the recovery of past due tariffs are codified in Section 35(1)-(2) of the Retail Electricity Supply Act.
This announcement comes in response to increasing anxiety among consumers regarding deferred payments and the collection of outdated electricity bills by distribution companies. The latest guidelines serve as a critical reminder for many customers who are battling lingering utility bills, unless the issues of tampering or illegal use apply.
Following its establishment under the provisions of the Electricity Act 2023, LASERC has taken over the regulatory oversight of electricity supply in Lagos from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission. The commission also affirmed its stance against implementing electricity subsidies in the state, stressing that operators must recover their costs effectively.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is reportedly committed to eliminating electricity subsidies, as indicated by Abiodun Ogunleye, the state’s Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources. Ogunleye reiterated that consumers will be charged the actual cost of electricity, and there will be no subsidies unless a directive from the governor alters that position.
During a recent stakeholder forum hosted by LASERC in Ikeja, Ogunleye emphasized the need for fair remuneration for all participants in the electricity value chain. He also noted that LASERC is collaborating with federal entities to establish gas-to-power pricing for producers operating in Lagos, ensuring that every contribution to electricity generation is acknowledged and appropriately compensated.
In alignment with its future plans, LASERC announced the intention to eliminate the contentious classification of electricity tariff bands. Chief Executive Officer Temitope George highlighted the necessity for appropriate pricing and outlined the commission’s goal of achieving 100% 24-hour metered electricity supply across Lagos. He reaffirmed LASERC’s commitment to enhancing electricity regulation, promoting sustainable development, and improving residents’ quality of life.
Additionally, the commission disclosed that it is in the process of setting up regional offices in Ikorodu, Amuwo-Odofin/Badagry, and the Sangotedo/Epe area. This initiative aims to bolster consumer protection efforts by facilitating improved complaint resolution and accessibility to regulatory services, with the offices expected to become operational in the third quarter of this year.
