The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has introduced stricter penalties for electricity theft, including tampering with prepaid meters and bypassing connections. The new fines, ranging from ₦100,000 to ₦300,000, were outlined in an amended order released on Tuesday.
New Penalties for Electricity Theft
According to the order, which took effect on January 22, 2025, non-maximum demand single-phase residential customers will pay:
- ₦100,000 for the first offence
- ₦150,000 for subsequent offences
For non-maximum demand three-phase customers:
- ₦200,000 for the first offence
- ₦300,000 for subsequent offences
Maximum demand customers caught bypassing their meters will pay between 450% and 600% of their last recorded energy consumption as a penalty.
The amendment aligns with the Electricity Act 2023 and Customer Protection Regulations 2023, empowering distribution companies to disconnect unauthorised connections without notice and enforce strict reconnection guidelines.
DisCos Intensify Crackdown on Energy Theft
Electricity distribution companies (DisCos) have expressed concern over the rising cases of energy theft. Ikeja Electric warned that offenders would be prosecuted rather than just fined, emphasizing that energy theft affects service delivery and the company’s ability to meet customer expectations.
Similarly, Eko DisCo identified meter tampering, illegal connections, and vandalism as major threats to Nigeria’s power sector. The company’s acting CEO, Mrs. Rekhiat Momoh, urged customers to support efforts to eliminate energy theft, which leads to billions in annual losses and hampers infrastructure upgrades.
Government’s Stand on Electricity Theft
NERC emphasized that all offenders must pay administrative charges, including meter replacement costs, before reconnection. The commission reiterated that tackling energy theft is crucial for ensuring stable electricity supply and sustaining the power sector.
