Electricity Theft: NERC Insists DisCos Follow Strict Standard Operating Procedures

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has insisted that electricity distribution companies (DisCos) strictly follow a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to combat rampant electricity theft and bolster the power sector’s financial health.

In a directive posted on its website, NERC outlined rigorous steps for DisCos to detect and address unauthorised access. “DisCos shall identify areas suspected of unauthorised access based on anomalies in consumption patterns, irregularities in billing, or other suspicious indicators,” the commission stated.

The SOP requires in-depth analysis of consumption data and billing records to spot abnormalities, coupled with surveillance to monitor suspicious activities.

Also, physical inspections of meters for tampering, illegal connections, or modifications must include video and photographic evidence, taken with customers or representatives present, the guidelines indicated.

DisCos are directed to inspect distribution infrastructure—power lines, transformers, and boxes—for illegal hookups, while conducting interviews with witnesses, residents, and authorities. Advanced technologies like data analytics and smart metering will aid detection.

According to the SOP, all actions must comply with legal standards, with comprehensive records of evidence, tests, and statements maintained.

Upon confirmation of theft via meter bypass or malfunction, DisCos must issue disconnection notices and proceed with cutoffs.

The NERC said penalties and legal actions against culprits will follow due process, with mandatory collaboration between DisCos and law enforcement to protect the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).