The Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC) has directed electricity supply licensees operating within the state not to recover electricity charges that are more than one year old, introducing a new consumer protection measure aimed at promoting fairness and accountability in electricity billing.
The commission announced that electricity providers are prohibited from demanding payment for unpaid charges that accrued more than 12 months before the date of the current bill. According to LASERC, the directive is intended to prevent consumers from being burdened with long-outstanding debts that were not billed or recovered within a reasonable timeframe.
Under the new regulation, electricity supply licensees are expected to issue accurate and timely bills while ensuring that any outstanding charges are recovered within the prescribed 12-month period. Any attempt to recover debts beyond that timeframe would be considered a violation of the commission’s directive.
LASERC said the policy forms part of its broader efforts to strengthen consumer rights and improve transparency in electricity service delivery following the transfer of electricity regulatory oversight within Lagos State.
The commission also urged electricity providers to maintain proper billing records and efficient customer engagement processes to minimise disputes over outstanding payments. Consumers, on the other hand, were encouraged to promptly verify their bills and report any discrepancies through the appropriate complaint channels.
The development is expected to provide relief to electricity consumers who have in the past received backdated bills covering several years, often resulting in disputes between customers and distribution companies.
Industry observers say the directive could encourage electricity providers to improve their billing systems, meter management, and revenue collection processes while ensuring greater compliance with regulatory standards.
LASERC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting electricity consumers in Lagos State and maintaining a fair, transparent, and efficient electricity market. The commission added that it will continue to monitor compliance with its regulations and take appropriate enforcement action against any licensee found to be in breach of the directive.
The latest move underscores LASERC’s efforts to balance the interests of electricity consumers and service providers while promoting accountability and confidence in the state’s evolving electricity sector.
