Electricity consumers in Anambra have rejected the use of estimated billing, calling on First Power Ltd, the state’s electricity distribution company, to provide prepaid meters.

Speaking at a public consultation on draft electricity regulations held in Awka, the Coordinator of the Electricity Consumers Network, Comrade Osita Obi, said estimated billing was unacceptable to consumers.

The development comes amid persistent power outages across the state, with residents expressing frustration over irregular supply and billing practices.

The Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission has, however, reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers as it works to regulate the electricity market in the state.

“The idea of estimated billing is unacceptable because there are no clear parameters to determine how much consumers are expected to pay at the end of the month,” he said.

Obi noted that consumers are often billed despite not using electricity, especially when they travel, describing the practice as unjustifiable.

“With prepaid meters, just like in the telecommunications sector, consumers can pay for what they use. We no longer want estimated billing,” he added.

In his remarks, the Chairman of ASERC, Prof. Frank Nwoye Okoye, said the commission was established to protect electricity consumers and ensure fairness in the sector.

He explained that the draft regulations under review are designed to shape the state’s electricity market, with a focus on affordability, availability, and improved service delivery.

“In today’s world, one of the most critical measures of development is the availability of electricity,” Okoye said.

He added that the ongoing consultations are part of a statewide engagement aimed at interfacing with consumers and electricity providers across major cities in Anambra. (Nigerian Tribune)