The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has unveiled a new regulatory order directing electricity distribution companies to adopt a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to detect and address meter tampering, illegal connections and other forms of electricity theft in the country.
Contained in Order No. NERC/2014/148, made available to newsmen on Thursday, the fresh directive outlines detailed investigative and enforcement measures that distribution companies must follow when suspicious electricity consumption patterns or billing irregularities are detected.
According to NERC, distribution Clcompanies shall interview witnesses, residents, or local authorities to gather information about observed instances of unauthorised access or suspicious activities. Document all interviews conducted.
It also directs distribution companies shall employ advanced technologies, such as advanced metering infrastructure, data analytics, and monitoring systems, to detect abnormal consumption patterns and potential instances of unauthorised access.
It further directs distribution companies to ensure all legal and regulatory requirements, inspections and evidence gathering”
According to the commission, the new procedure is designed to strengthen oversight within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry and safeguard electricity infrastructure from losses caused by unauthorised access to the network.
Besides, distribution companies are required to first identify locations where electricity theft may be occurring by analysing consumption data, billing discrepancies and other unusual indicators.
Once such areas are flagged, the companies must conduct a detailed review of electricity usage records to determine whether the irregularities suggest possible meter manipulation or illegal connections, the guidelines said.
The SOP also mandates the deployment of surveillance and monitoring activities in suspected locations to gather additional evidence.
NERC said these may include field observations and tracking of unusual activities that could indicate unlawful access to electricity infrastructure.
Besides, distribution companies are required to carry out physical inspections of electricity meters in affected areas to detect signs of tampering, illegal bypasses or unauthorised alterations to installed metering systems.
It added:”Where meters are suspected to have been compromised, integrity tests must be conducted, with the process documented through photographs and video recordings in the presence of the customer or their representative.
“Beyond meter checks, inspection teams are expected to examine distribution facilities such as power lines, transformers and distribution boxes to uncover any illegal connections or interference with the electricity network.”
The procedure also allows investigators to gather supporting information through interviews with residents, community members and local authorities where necessary.
To solidify detection capabilities, the commission encouraged distribution companies to deploy advanced technologies including advanced metering infrastructure, monitoring systems and data analytics tools capable of identifying abnormal electricity consumption patterns.
The guideline further requires detailed documentation of every stage of the investigation process, including meter test results, photographic evidence, video recordings and witness statements to ensure transparency and regulatory compliance.
Where cases of meter tampering or illegal electricity access are confirmed, the affected customers will be issued a formal disconnection notice. Power supply to such premises may subsequently be disconnected in line with regulatory procedures.
The commission also emphasised that offenders will face penalties in accordance with existing laws and regulations, while distribution companies are expected to work closely with law enforcement agencies to facilitate investigation and prosecution.