Ayodeji Ayenuwa
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has taken a big step towards enhancing service delivery by launching an application platform to monitor power outage across the country. The platform named ‘Power Outage Reporting System’ (PORS) was created to simplify the complaint resolution process, making it accessible and efficient for customers.
The launching of the Application took place at the NERC headquarters in Abuja. Speaking at the launch event, Aisha Mahmud, NERC’s Commissioner of Consumer Affairs, explained that the initiative began with a partnership between NERC and the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), serving as a pilot program. She shared that the commission had originally intended to develop and manage the app on its own, but eventually decided to involve distribution companies (DisCos).
The Power Outage Reporting System (PORS) employs a multi-channel approach to gather data from customers regarding power outages and the hours of supply provided by each service band. According to Mahmud, if you are a customer of a distribution company, your information is already stored in the app. Customers can report outages through various channels, including a web application and a mobile application available for download on platforms like Apple and Google stores. All you need is your meter number.
How the Application works
When a customer reports an outage by inputting their meter number and complaint, the app automatically sends a confirmation to other customers on the same feeder. If multiple customers confirm the outage, the app notifies the distribution companies (DisCo), providing a resolution timeline. Once the DisCo resolves the complaint, the app updates the affected customers.
This innovative approach simplifies the process of reporting power outages, eliminating the need for customers to visit the distribution company’s offices in person. The app’s pilot program begins in Abuja, with plans to extend it to all other DisCos in the coming months. Mahmud encouraged AEDC customers to utilize the app to report outages and assured them of NERC’s commitment to protecting their interests and ensuring they receive value for their money.
Sanusi Garba, Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, highlighted the app’s role in monitoring compliance with consumer protection regulations. He noted that the app was initially designed to crowdsource data for service-based tariffs, helping assess the quality of supply experienced by customers. The commission decided to deploy smart technology on all feeders to collect real-time data, ensuring DisCos adhere to prescribed service obligations.
Garba encouraged citizens to use the app to report disruptions and supply issues in their areas, emphasizing the importance of customer feedback. He stated that AEDC serves as the initial test case for the app, with plans for a nationwide rollout to other distribution companies, prioritizing areas with the highest complaint levels.
Christopher Ezeafulukwe, Managing Director of AEDC, commended the collaborative effort that led to the app’s launch. He stressed the significance of customer feedback and expressed optimism that the app would benefit all stakeholders. Ezeafulukwe urged customers to use the app correctly to ensure accurate and valuable feedback.
In conclusion, NERC’s Power Outage Reporting System (PORS) app marks a significant step towards improving power supply services in Nigeria. It empowers customers to report outages efficiently, enhances transparency, and promotes collaboration between regulatory authorities, distribution companies, and consumers. Download the app today to make your voice heard and contribute to a more reliable power supply system.
