The National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has, with effect from today, abolished the mandatory N750 fixed charge by electricity distribution companies (DISCOs).

NERC Chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi, announced this yesterday in Abuja while addressing journalists on issues surrounding the electricity fixed charge, which has sparked protests in parts of the country.

He said that the monthly service charge no longer applies to consumers who do not enjoy power supply for 15 days at a stretch, or 15 days cumulatively.

Amadi, however, explained that the commission cannot stop the collection of monthly service charge as it is normal industry practice and necessary.

“We must ensure that the DISCOs receive enough money to maintain the network and at the same time, we don’t want it to be an incentive not to respond to faults that they could manage within their existing commitment,” he said, adding: “The fixed charge is an element of any electricity bill, not just now. It is not unique to us. It is not fixed that it cannot change from year to year. It is fixed because it is fixed for that month.”

The NERC Chairman described the fixed charge as a universal practice but assured that the commission would protect electricity consumers while at the same time ensuring that electricity producers recover their cost and be able to continue producing power for the consumers.

“Each time we hear complains, we try to investigate, look at what the issues are and see what appropriate intervention,” he said.

Amadi announced that new tariffs would start from June 1, 2014 and that NERC would, by May 8, create a forum office in Benin, Yola and Jos, where electricity issues would be settled.

•Photo shows NERC Chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi.