The country is closer to stable electricity as the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) launched an application platform on Monday to monitor power disruptions nationwide.
The commission launched the app at its headquarters in Abuja.
The app, called the 'Power Outage Reporting System (PORS)', is an online initiative aimed at making the complaint resolution process easier and faster for customers, according to the commission.
Speaking at the launch on Monday, Aisha Mahmud, NERC's commissioner of consumer affairs, stated that the launch, which used the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) as a pilot, was in partnership with the distribution companies (DisCos). She mentioned that the intention to commission the app was a few months ago, but due to some bottlenecks that the commission faced, it couldn't be commissioned until Monday.
As for how the app works, she explained that if there is a complaint on any outage, multiple channels can be used to report it. "If you have a complaint, all you need to do is download the app, input your meter number, and then log in with your complaint," she said. "The app will automatically send a confirmation to the customer on that particular feeder by notifying them if there is truly an outage. If there is, we need two to three customers to confirm the outage on that feeder. Once they confirm it, the app will send the confirmation to the DisCos with a resolution timeline. Once the DisCos resolve the complaint, they will update the app, stating that they have resolved the issue. The app will then automatically send another confirmation request to those customers on that feeder."
She mentioned that the commission has made the work of the DisCos much easier and that customers can easily reach out to them. The commission aims to fulfill its regulatory obligation to ensure that customers receive the best service. "With this app that we are launching today, customers don't have to walk or drive to the distribution company to report an outage," she added. As of today, the pilot phase will start in Abuja, and the commission intends to extend it to all other DisCos within the next couple of months. She urged all customers of AEDC to utilize this opportunity, make use of the app, and report any outages. Customers should know that the commission is here to protect them and ensure they receive value for their money and the services they deserve from the distribution company.
The launch of the Power Outage Reporting System (PORS) app marks a significant step towards improving electricity services in Nigeria. As the app becomes fully operational, it will provide a streamlined platform for customers to report power outages and receive timely resolutions.
Aisha Mahmud, the commissioner of consumer affairs at NERC, expressed her excitement about the app's potential to enhance customer experience. Now, instead of having to physically visit the local distribution company to report an outage, customers can simply download the app and submit their complaints from the comfort of their homes. This not only saves time but also ensures that more customers can easily reach out to the DisCos.
With the app's launch focusing on the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), the pilot phase will initially serve customers in this area. However, NERC plans to expand the use of the app to all other DisCos in the coming months. This gradual deployment will allow the commission to fine-tune the system and address any issues that may arise before implementing it nationwide.
The importance of the app lies not only in its efficiency but also in its ability to ensure transparency and accountability. By requiring confirmation from multiple customers on the same feeder before registering an outage, the PORS app minimizes the risk of false reports and provides a reliable mechanism for identifying areas experiencing power disruptions. Once a complaint is confirmed, the DisCos will receive a notification with a resolution timeline, fostering a sense of urgency in addressing the issue.
Through the PORS app, NERC aims to fulfill its regulatory duty of safeguarding customer interests and ensuring they receive quality service. As the country moves closer to stable electricity, this innovative solution promises to bridge the gap between customers and distribution companies. It empowers consumers, gives them a voice, and holds the DisCos accountable for their performance.
For the people of Nigeria, the launch of the PORS app represents a significant stride in their ongoing quest for improved electricity services. As they download the app, report outages, and participate in the resolution process, they can rest assured that NERC is diligently working to protect their rights and provide them with the reliable, uninterrupted power supply they deserve.