From CHARLES ONYEKWERE, ABAKALIKI
Eastland Electricity Distribution Limited, EEDL, a subsidiary of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, has identified the issues relating to metering and billing for electricity customers in Ebonyi State.
The company reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, fairness and improved service delivery.
The clarification was disclosed by the Managing Director, EEDL, Engr Nnamdi Chuka-Nwosu, during an exclusive chat with newsmen yesterday in Abakaliki.
Speaking on the metering process, Chuka-Nwosu explained that meter application is completely free of charge and has been simplified to ensure ease and convenience for customers.
“Customers can apply for meters online through our website or visit any of our customer service offices for guidance. The metering process is structured to ensure transparency and standard pricing,” Chuka-Nwosu stated.
He clarified that meters are provided under the approved Meter Asset Provider, MAP, scheme, where licensed meter vendors supply meters to interested customers at a cost approved by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC.
“While EEDL facilitates the process and interfaces with customers, meter pricing is handled strictly by NERC, ensuring uniformity and regulatory compliance across the distribution companies nationwide,” he added.
He disclosed the Meter Acquisition Fund, MAF, is aimed at accelerating meter deployment nationwide, adding that the company has installed over 1,500 meters in Ebonyi State, at no cost to customers.
He noted that customers who opt to be metered through the MAP scheme will be reimbursed over time with the cost of the meter through energy units, as they recharge the meters.
While addressing concerns about estimated billing, Chuka-Nwosu emphasized that it is a regulated method of billing customers who are not yet metered, but are served by the distribution company.
“Estimated billing is not peculiar to Ebonyi State. It is implemented across the country in line with NERC`s regulations. We, however, encourage customers with bill related concerns to utilise our established complaint resolution channels for prompt review and necessary adjustments where necessary,” Chuka-Nwosu stated.
The company also clarified that the requirement for customers to engage Licensed Electrical Contractors of Nigeria, LECAN, for wiring certification is a regulatory provision and not just a policy of EEDL. Customers are free to engage any licensed contractor of their choice and professional fees charged by such contractors are paid to them, not to EEDL.
EEDL reiterated that it applies uniform metering and billing policies across all areas within its franchise and does not operate any state-specific regime.
The company assured customers of its continued commitment to regulatory compliance, operational transparency and enhanced customers experience in Ebonyi State.
