The Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) has mandated MainPower Electricity Distribution Company to reimburse over 20,000 customers who were subjected to excessive billing during the month of April 2025. This directive follows a comprehensive investigation conducted by the commission into MainPower’s billing practices, which uncovered a substantial rise in violations related to estimated billing. The EERC, through a statement issued by its Chairman, Chijioke Okonkwo, and the Commissioner for Market Operations, Reuben Okoye, expressed its commitment to protecting consumer rights and ensuring fair billing practices within the electricity sector.
The commission’s investigation stemmed from concerns raised regarding MainPower’s billing practices. The EERC had been monitoring the company’s activities since October 2024 and had issued multiple correspondences outlining their apprehensions. Despite these warnings, MainPower allegedly failed to rectify the identified issues, prompting the EERC to take decisive enforcement action. The commission’s review of MainPower’s April 2025 estimated billing report revealed a significant escalation in the violation of estimated billing caps. The percentage of violations surged from 24% in February and March 2025 to 34% in April 2025, signifying a worsening trend in the company’s billing practices.
The EERC has formally ordered MainPower to refund the overcharged amounts to the affected customers by the July 2025 billing cycle. A list of the affected customers has been made available on the commission’s website for transparency and to facilitate the refund process. This measure aims to ensure that customers are not unjustly burdened by inaccurate billing practices and receive the appropriate redress. The commission underscored its resolve to enforce compliance by stipulating a penalty of N500,000 for each day MainPower fails to adhere to the refund order. This penalty is in accordance with the provisions of the Enugu State Electricity Law 2023.
The overbilling issue underlines the broader challenges associated with estimated billing practices in the electricity sector. Estimated billing, while sometimes necessary, can be prone to inaccuracies and can result in customers being unfairly charged. This case highlights the importance of regulatory oversight and enforcement to safeguard consumer rights and ensure the integrity of billing procedures. The EERC’s intervention serves as a crucial step towards holding electricity distribution companies accountable for their billing practices and protecting consumers from undue financial burdens.
The EERC has provided a platform for affected customers to seek assistance if they do not receive their refunds by the stipulated deadline. Customers who experience any difficulties or delays in receiving their refunds are encouraged to contact the commission via email at [email protected] or by phone at 09122642755. This provision emphasizes the commission’s commitment to facilitating a smooth and efficient refund process and ensuring that all affected customers receive the appropriate compensation.
In summary, the EERC’s directive to MainPower to refund overbilled customers reflects the commission’s active role in regulating the electricity sector and protecting consumer interests. The investigation, the subsequent order, and the established channels for customer support demonstrate the EERC’s dedication to ensuring fair and transparent billing practices within the Enugu State electricity market. This action serves as a significant step towards promoting accountability within the sector and safeguarding the rights of electricity consumers. The commission’s firm stance on enforcing compliance and its commitment to resolving customer complaints underscore its commitment to ensuring a just and equitable electricity market for all stakeholders.
