- The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) warns that tampering with electricity facilities can result in penalties of up to three years in prison by the 2023 Electricity Act.
- NERC also met with Lafarge to discuss energy initiatives, proposing a technical team to address energy scale-up requests and highlighting their commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has warned power users about illegal tampering with electricity facilities. Offenders could face severe penalties, including up to three years in prison. This enforcement is grounded in the provisions of the newly enacted 2023 Electricity Act.
In a recent post on its X handle, NERC highlighted specific illegal activities related to electricity use. Unauthorised connections and meter tampering are particularly scrutinized. Offenders caught engaging in these activities risk a jail term of up to three years or a hefty fine of up to N500,000 and an additional N10,000 each day the violation continues.
Furthermore, NERC underscored the illegality of assaulting or threatening electricity workers. Such actions could lead to penalties as severe as N1 million in fines, a six-month prison sentence, or a combination of both. The Commission also addressed electricity-related crimes, including meter bypassing and damaging electrical materials. Those found guilty may face a three-year prison term, a fine of N300,000, plus any associated repair costs.
Conducting unauthorised electricity businesses is also strictly forbidden, with violators potentially facing fines up to ten times the standard license fees, imprisonment for up to five years, or both. NERC emphasised that adherence to these regulations is essential for maintaining a safe and reliable electricity supply across Nigeria.
In related news, NERC Chairman Sanusi Garba recently met with representatives from Lafarge, welcoming them and expressing the Commission’s readiness to assist the company in its energy initiatives. During the meeting, NERC Vice Chairman Dr Musiliu Oseni proposed the formation of a technical team consisting of NERC and Lafarge members.
This team would focus on discussions regarding energy scale-up requests, indicating NERC’s proactive approach to collaborating with major stakeholders in the power sector.
This initiative aligns with NERC’s broader objective of enhancing the electricity supply infrastructure while ensuring compliance with legal standards. By reinforcing these regulations, NERC aims to foster a more stable and efficient electricity distribution system, encourage lawful practices, and protect consumers and service providers within the energy sector.