The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has announced that it holds power distribution companies accountable for replacing phased-out meters in their respective franchise areas. This decision was prompted by concerns raised over the discontinuation of Unistar prepaid meters by Ikeja Electric Plc and other electricity distribution firms.
The move aims to address consumer worries about potential financial burdens during the meter transition. Ikeja Electric’s plan to stop supporting Unistar prepaid meters, in use for over a decade, starting November 14, 2024, is attributed to necessary technological upgrades and Token Identifier rollover issues.
In a statement, the FCCPC’s Director of Special Duties and Strategic Communication, Ondaje Ijagwu, emphasized the agency’s commitment to shielding consumers from extra costs during the meter replacement process. He stressed the importance of preventing arbitrary estimated billing and ensuring compliance with existing regulations.
The FCCPC is actively collaborating with key stakeholders like the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission and the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency to promote a transparent and accountable metering system. The commission plans to educate consumers about their rights in metering and billing to prevent any form of exploitation during this crucial period.
Ijagwu reiterated the FCCPC’s dedication to advocating for consumers and ensuring that service providers act fairly and transparently in handling the meter replacement without passing additional costs to consumers.