Despite condemnation by Nigerians over the increase in electricity charges without improved power supply, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has said the increase in fixed charges for electricity consumers is aimed at guaranteeing stable electricity supply in the nearest future.
Addressing a news conference in Abuja, NERC’s chairman, Dr Sam Amadi says the tariff paid by consumers is fair, reasonable and necessary to guarantee continuous improvement in electricity supply to homes and businesses in Nigeria.
He added that the multi-year tariff order of N500 fixed charge for 2012 was slightly increased to N700 with effect from June 2013 and as such there has not been an arbitrary increase of tariffs.
Electricity consumers in the country have been lamenting the annual increase in fixed charges which comes into effect on the 1st of June every year.
Some electricity consumers in their reaction advised the commission to work towards ensuring increased electricity supply by distribution companies.
Although the Nigerian Labour Congress has criticised the increase in fixed charges, the five year multiyear tariff order which came into effect in 2012 to ensure that electricity consumers pay more for electricity supply between now and 2017.
