The Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC) has clarified that its proposed 12-month billing rule does not cancel existing electricity debts, contrary to reports suggesting consumers would no longer be required to pay bills older than one year.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the commission explained that the proposed provision in its new Retail Electricity Supply Code only requires electricity suppliers to issue bills within 12 months of electricity consumption after the Code comes into effect. It stressed that outstanding debts accumulated before the new regulation remains valid and payable.
LASERC said the proposed rule is intended to improve billing efficiency and prevent excessive back billing, rather than relieve customers of their responsibility to pay for electricity already consumed.
Chief Executive Officer of LASERC, Temitope George, said the reform would encourage electricity distribution companies to issue bills promptly while maintaining the obligation for consumers to settle legitimate historical debts.
The commission also reminded distribution companies of their legal responsibility to meter eligible customers within prescribed timelines, adding that the proposed Code is part of wider reforms aimed at improving billing transparency, boosting investor confidence and promoting a reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity market in Lagos State.
