A power sector official in Bayelsa State has explained why many Nigerians receive high electricity bills even when supply is irregular.
The clarification came after concerns were raised about communities experiencing long blackouts but still getting high charges.
According to the official, electricity billing is based on consumption, not the number of hours power is supplied.
He explained that when electricity is restored after days or weeks of outage, residents tend to use multiple appliances at once.
This sudden spike in usage leads to high energy consumption within a short period.
The official said households often switch on freezers, washing machines, water pumps, microwaves, and pressing irons at the same time once power returns.
He noted that in some cases, energy meant to be used over several days is consumed within just a few hours.
As a result, the electricity meter records high usage, which reflects in the billing.
He stressed that meters only track how much energy is consumed and not how long electricity is supplied.
According to him, if no energy is used, the meter will not record consumption regardless of supply duration.
He described the situation as a pattern of heavy usage and urged residents to be more conscious of how they consume electricity.
The explanation has triggered discussions online, with many Nigerians debating billing methods, supply challenges, and the need for better electricity infrastructure.
“Why give people just one hour of light?”
“The problem is how it’s used. The moment power comes, every appliance is turned on. What should last a week is used in an hour.”
— NEPA official in Bayelsa State pic.twitter.com/vtDoaTt9kZ
— NaijaWide Media (@Naijawide01) April 30, 2026
