Khaberni - In response to inquiries and remarks from citizens about the mechanisms of electricity disconnection, the Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission provided a comprehensive explanation of the approved procedures.
These procedures regulate the relationship between the electricity distribution companies and the subscribers in the residential sector.
The Commission confirmed that these mechanisms aim to maintain continuity of service and to achieve a balance between consumer rights and the obligations of distribution companies, including details of the grace periods granted to subscribers before implementing the disconnection, and the fees associated with the restoration of service.
A 60-day or 75 Dinar Grace Period
The Commission’s spokesperson, Dr. Tahrir Al-Kak, explained that the recent decision issued by the chairman of the board of commissioners granted residential sector subscribers a grace period of up to 60 days for payment (equivalent to two monthly bills) and a maximum financial limit of 75 dinars; this is before the disconnection procedures are applied.
Al-Kak stated that these controls are intended to regulate procedures fairly and to balance the stability of the electrical supply system with the duties incumbent on subscribers.
Advance Notice
Regarding the remarks from some citizens about not receiving adequate advance notice before disconnection, Al-Kak emphasized that the Commission has mandated electricity distribution companies to have clear and advance procedures, including sending a text message (SMS) to the subscriber's registered phone about three days before the scheduled disconnection date, which includes a notice stressing the need to make payment to avoid disconnection.
Al-Kak urged subscribers to ensure they update their phone numbers and contact details to receive notifications and be able to pay their bills and avoid service disconnection.
Reconnection Fees
Al-Kak clarified that the fee for the first reconnection is 3 dinars, according to approved instructions, and an additional dinar is added if disconnection occurs again due to continued non-compliance with payment obligations, ensuring a balance between the rights of subscribers and their duties and the sustainability of the electrical service efficiently and fairly.
Al-Kak confirmed that the procedures of the Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission apply to all three electricity distribution companies operating in the kingdom, noting that this regulation includes more than 1.5 million subscribers in the residential sector.
Al-Kak emphasized the Commission's ongoing commitment to enhancing principles of transparency in dealings with subscribers.
She also affirmed her commitment to ensuring the sustainability of the electricity supply and guaranteeing the reliability and quality of the services provided to all subscribers.
