FCCPC engages with DisCos over replacement of phased-out metres

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) says it is collaborating with stakeholders to address the ongoing concerns regarding the phase-out of Unistar prepaid meters by electricity distribution companies (DisCos).

In a statement on Tuesday by Ondaje ljagwu, director, special duties (and strategic communication), FCCPC said there were widespread consumer complaints on the issue.

Ikeja Electric had said the Unistar prepaid meters, first deployed over a decade ago, will no longer be supported from November 14, due to technological upgrades and the token identifier (TID) rollover issue.

Responding to the situation, the commission said it has observed increasing anxiety among consumers over potential financial burdens, particularly whether they would have to cover the cost of replacement meters.

“Further concerns relate to the possibility of consumers being placed on arbitrary estimated billing during this transition, which would violate existing rules,” FCCPC said.

“These concerns have been worsened by insufficient communication from the Discos about the phase-out process, leading to uncertainty and distrust.

“In line with its mandate to protect consumers and promote fairness in the Nigerian marketplace, the FCCPC is actively engaging key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), and the eleven (11) DisCos.”

FCCPC said the goal of the engagement is to make the metering process transparent and accountable while protecting consumer interests.

“The FCCPC is initiating discussions with Ikeja Electric and other stakeholders to clarify the phase-out process and ensure that DisCos bear the cost of replacing phased-out meters, without imposing extra charges on consumers,” FCCPC said.

“The Commission will also work to ensure that Discos comply with regulatory guidelines, preventing consumers from being unfairly charged or placed on estimated billing.”

Additionally, FCCPC said it will boost consumer education on their rights, especially regarding metering and electricity billing, to prevent exploitation.

The commission said it is dedicated to “preventing any disadvantage to consumers during this meter upgrade”.

“This intervention is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, aimed at ensuring fair treatment for Nigerian consumers and access to essential services like electricity,” FCCPC said.

The commission said it would keep advocating for Nigerian consumers to ensure that service providers, including DisCos, act in a consumer-friendly, fair, and transparent manner.