How to know your tariff band on Vtpass

Two weeks ago, you may not have bothered about your tariff band or what it means. However, since the implementation of a new tariff plan in 2020, finding out your Tariff Band category is essential in helping you budget and plan around your electricity usage. With the new tariff plan just implemented on all Band A consumers, I am sure you want to know where your meter falls

Here’s how VTpass, your one-stop shop for all things utility payments, can help you decipher the mystery of your electricity band.

Why Your Electricity Band Tariff Matters:

  • Fairness and Transparency: The NERC categorizes electricity consumers into bands based on the quality and consistency of the power supply received. Knowing your band ensures you’re billed according to the service level you actually experience.
  • Cost Control Potential: Customers in bands with a more reliable power supply (Bands A-C) may pay more compared to those in bands with less frequent or shorter power availability (Bands D-E).
  • Informed Budgeting: Understanding your band tariff allows you to more accurately budget for your monthly electricity expenses.

Finding Your Electricity Band Tariff with VTpass:

However, the good news is? Finding your electricity band tariff is a breeze with VTpass! Here’s how:

Step 1: Download the VTpass app (if you haven’t already): Head over to the Google Play Store or App Store and download the VTpass app. Signing up is quick and easy!

Step 2: Enter Your Electricity Information: On the VTpass app, select the “Electricity Payment” option. Enter your meter number or other required details as prompted by the app.

Step 3: Voila! Your band is revealed: Once you’ve entered your information, the VTpass app will display your specific electricity band tariff. It’s that simple! You can equally check your receipts for your band type.

Beyond Finding Your Band:

VTpass goes beyond just revealing your band. Here’s what else you can do with the app:

  • Convenient Bill Payments: Pay your electricity bill quickly and securely within the VTpass app, eliminating the need to physically visit a payment location.
  • Track Your Consumption: Monitor your past electricity consumption patterns to identify areas where you can potentially reduce usage and save money.

Empower Yourself with Knowledge (and VTpass!)

Understanding your electricity band tariff is a valuable step towards taking control of your energy consumption and potentially reducing your electricity costs. So, what are you waiting for? Download the VTpass app today and unlock a world of convenience and clarity when it comes to your electricity bills!

Creative Hacks to Save on Electricity Costs with the VTpass Tip

It’s a fact that looking at an enormous power bill may make anyone feel down. But fear not, brave soldiers of energy! Here are some clever tips to help you reduce your electricity usage (and your bill) without losing comfort before you give up on a life of full lights and lukewarm baths.

Bring Attention to Energy Savings:

Accept the Power of Natural Light: Draw back the drapes and let the light shine inside! When possible, use natural light and only turn on the lights when absolutely necessary. Doing this will save you a lot of money on electricity.

Unplug the Energy Vampires: Your wallet may be drained by those annoying devices that are always in standby mode. When not in use, make it a habit to disconnect TVs, chargers, and other equipment.

Turn into a laundry guru by washing your clothes in cold water whenever you can and letting them air dry rather than using the energy-sucking dryer.

Shower Power: Take shorter showers (even if they’re only a few minutes long!) and think about using a low-flow showerhead to use less water, which means heating with less energy.

Bonus VTpass Tip: Power Up Your Payments!

Staying on top of your bills is another great way to beat the bill blues. With VTpass, paying your electricity bill is a breeze! Our secure and user-friendly platform allows you to make quick and convenient online payments, saving you time and avoiding late fees that can add to your financial burden. Plus, with VTpass, you can make automatic payments, ensuring you never miss a due date again!

Being more energy-conscious does not have to equate to being less comfortable. You can say goodbye to the bill blues and hello to a better (and lighter!) financial future by forming these easy habits and utilizing VTpass’ practical electricity bill payment tools.

Are there any inventive ways to reduce the cost of electricity? Post them in the section below!

Know your DisCos: Ikeja and Eko Electric what is the difference?

Have you ever wondered who to call in Lagos if there is a power outage? You’ve probably heard of Ikeja Electric (IE) and Eko Distribution Company (EKEDC) if you live in the busy city. But what distinguishes these two entities specifically? In order to assist you in navigating the Lagos electricity distribution landscape, let’s break down the significant differences.

Who they are:

  • Ikeja Electric (IE): The largest power distribution company in Nigeria, IE boasts a vast network covering a significant portion of Lagos State. This includes areas like Ikeja, Oshodi, Shomolu, and Ikorodu.
  • Eko Distribution Company (EKEDC): Serving the southern parts of Lagos, EKEDC distributes electricity to residents in areas like Lekki, Festac, Apapa, and Agbara.

Both IE and EKEDC are responsible for distributing bulk electricity purchased from them to homes and businesses within their designated franchise areas.

They handle tasks like:

  • Meter installation and maintenance
  • Billing and customer service
  • Distribution line repairs and maintenance
  • Responding to customer complaints regarding power outages

Ikeja and Eko Electric: who do you contact with issues?

Knowing your service provider is crucial when facing electricity-related issues. Here’s a quick guide:

  • Ikeja Electric: If your residence falls within Ikeja, Oshodi, Shomolu, Ikorodu, or other areas around here, you should contact IE for billing inquiries, outages, or any other electricity-related concerns.
  • Eko Distribution Company: Residents of Lekki, Festac, Apapa, Agbara, or any other areas listed on their website should reach out to EKEDC for assistance with power issues or billing concerns. If you need to make bill payments for any DisCos, you should use VTpass for easy and seamless transactions.

Working Together for a Brighter Lagos:

While IE and EKEDC operate as separate entities, they both play a vital role in ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for Lagosians. Understanding the areas they serve empowers you to reach the right service provider for your needs.

In other words, VTpass ensures that all electric distribution payments are available at your fingertips and without any issues. Pay electricity on the go, and remember that a well informed consumer is a powerful one.

IKEDC STS PREPAID METER UPGRADE

The current software for all prepaid electricity meters in the world including Nigeria will expire on 24th November 2024. This is called a TID Rollover. All STS Pre-paid meters within IE network must be upgraded, otherwise the meters would be unable to load energy tokens from 1st November 2023 when IE kicks off its TID rollover process.

Importantly, all IE customers with STS meters are required to provide NIN details prior to the upgrade. Your prepaid meter is STS if 20-digit token numbers are generated whenever you buy electricity).

STS PREPAID METER UPGRADE PROCESS

Upgrade your STS Prepaid Meter in 2 easy steps:

Step 01: NIN-Meter Link

Kindly visit Smart KYC to link your meter number and NIN

  • Click on the “Link your NIN And Meter” button.
  • Input your phone number, NIN and email address.
  • Confirm your NIN details and click on next if information returned is correct.
  • Input your meter number and verification code sent to your email, then click on submit.
  • Please note that only one (1) NIN can be linked to a meter except Landlords with multiple meters, who can use their NIN repeatedly.

Your information will be treated with utmost confidentiality.

Step 02: STS Prepaid Meter Upgrade Process

  • • To upgrade your meter, you need a Key Change Token-KCT (a special ‘reset’ token) to be loaded on your meter. • You will receive three (3) sets of 20-digit token upon vending as from November 1st, 2023.
  • Input the first set of 20-digits token (KCT 1), this will wipe off the old meter settings • Input the second set of 20-digit token (KCT 2), this will then upgrade your meter to the new STS platform.
  • The last set of 20-digit token will load the purchased energy value into the meter.

Please Note: Only customers who have linked their NIN will receive the two sets of 20- digit token (KCT 1 & 2), delivered alongside their energy token at the point of vending, as from November 1, 2023.

If you like to watch, here is a video that will help you understand better.

For enquiries and complaints, please contact our customer care helpline 09087482377 or send email to support@vtpass.com. Bills payment with vtpass.com is superfast, easy and very convenient. In addition, you get 24/7 access to our support team to help you through any glitch you might have. Why don’t you try us today?

Increase in Electricity Tariff; Customers to Pay More

The latest news to storm Nigerians after a trying period this year is the increase in electricity tariff. As approved by the Regulator; the revised Service Reflective Tariff (SRT) would take electricity tariff plans a spike higher; resulting in fewer units for buying consumers.

SRT was meant to take effect from September 1st, 2020 but was suspended after the Federal Government, Labour Unions, and other stakeholders met to discuss concerns raised about the tariff increase. However, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) approved the tariff spike after a brief wait.

IKEDC leads the pack in tariff implementation

On Sunday, November 1st, 2020, Ikeja Electric (IKEDC) announced via Twitter that they would commence the implementation of the revised tariff immediately.

The DisCo said: “Under the SRT, the tariff classification is based on the quality of service and therefore, divided into 5 Bands (A-E).

“This is measured by the average availability of power supply over a month, interruptions (frequency and duration), voltage levels, and other service parameters.

“With the revised tariff regime, Non-MD customers in Band A, with a minimum of 20 hours daily will now pay N51.22/Kwh.

“Band B customers with a minimum of 16 hours daily will be charged N46.93/Kwh; while Band C customers with a minimum of 12 hours daily will be charged N37.95/Kwh.

increase in electricity tariff

“However, please note that customers in Bands D and E, with a minimum of eight hours and four hours per day, respectively, are not impacted by the tariff revision.”

According to the company; the SRT tariffs of the two bands have been frozen, and consequently, they will continue to be charged the old tariff prior to the introduction of the SRT.

The prepaid meter customers in Bands A to C, who vends from November 1st would be charged the new tariff. The same will be implemented for postpaid customers in these bands during the November billing cycle.

AEDC comes next

Similarly, Abuja Electricity Distribution (AEDC) announced it will begin implementation of the increased electricity tariff with effect from the 1st of November too.

According to AEDC General Manager, Corporate Communication, Mr Oyebode Fadipe, customers on the pre-paid platform will be the first to experience the revised tariff when they vend as from Sunday, November 1st.

“While the revised tariff will reflect in the bills for customers on the postpaid platform when they receive their electricity bills.

“The tariff is divided into five bands and based on hours of supply to the customers.

“While customers on bands D and E have their tariff frozen, those on bands A, B, and C will see some level of reduction in their tariff as they vend.

“The AEDC assures its customers that it will, in line with the spirit and letter of the service reflective tariff, ensure that all customers receive quality service,” he said.

He said that the AEDC was also committed to the improvement of service to customers in all its franchise area.

“We, however, appeal to customers to please see this tariff regime as an opportunity for them to join hands with AEDC to speed up the process of improving the quality of service in the Nigerian power sector.”

AEDC would release the table of payment for the new tariff soon.

Other electricity distribution companies are expected to start implementing the increase in electricity tariff soon as well.

Pay Electricity Bills on VTpass

While VTpass has no control over the number of allocated to customers, prices would remain the same on our platform (as determined by respective electricity distributors) unless otherwise changed.

To pay your electricity bills using VTpass, simply log on to vtpass.com/eletricity-bill or click here. It’s fast and easy; your meter token would be displayed on our platform as well as sent to you via mail and SMS.

4 Ways VTpass Can Help You Avoid Banking Halls

Banking halls these days can be tiring. Even before the start of the coronavirus pandemic, crowds in banking halls can simply put you off.

Nowadays, with a huge necessity to avoid crowded places; one needs to find alternatives to carryout most bank-related transactions without risking health and safety.

Here are a few ways VTpass can help you complete bank transactions while staying safe:

how to avoid banking halls

1. Pay Bills Online, Conveniently

Nothing feels better than being able to lay in bed, curl your toes and pay bills easily using your computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Our high traffic website: vtpass.com can be accessed on any platform and you can perform transactions in three easy steps; Login > Select > Pay!

VTpass has a wide range of options and our lists of services keep growing! You can:

  • Transfer money to any Nigerian bank, no matter the amount.
  • Buy airtime or data instantly: MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile
  • Internet payment: Smile airtime, Smile data, etc.
  • Pay electricity bills whether prepaid or postpaid. Get meter token delivered to you instantly: IKEDC, IBEDC, EKEDC, AEDC, KEDCO, JED, PHED, KAEDCO, etc.
  • Renew TV subscriptions and get reconnected immediately : DStv, GOtv, StarTimes, etc.
  • Buy top-notch insurance covers from leading insurance companies in Nigeria: Third-party motor insurance, Health insurance, Personal accident insurance, Home insurance, etc.
  • Pay education bills such as WAEC Registration PIN, WAEC Checker PIN, etc.
vtpass mobile app v2.0.2

2. Free Mobile App for Transactions

Enjoy the easy bill payment experience better when you download the VTpass mobile app from Google PlayStore. The app is optimized to work on any android devices.

With its lightweight, speed, and easy-navigation features, you can complete transactions anywhere, anytime by simply tapping few buttons.

how to avoid banking halls

3. Free VTpass Wallet

Technology makes life easier every day and so does VTpass. With VTpass auto-wallet, you can store funds for bills payment all in one place. It gives you a lot of benefits:

  • Separate funds for settling important bills from other funds by simply transferring your bills-funds to your VTpass wallet.
  • No need to input card details every time you wish to make payment. Just tap and pay.
  • Funds transferred to your wallet is 100% safe.
  • You are in total control of your money!

Read more: How to activate VTpass auto-wallet.

VTpass.com- Bill payment platform
VTpass.com- Bill payment platform

4. VTpass agents

Not a fan of online transactions? Why not visit a VTpass agent near you to carry out transactions. These are basically moms, shop-owners, students, etc partnering with us to serve you locally.

Payment is truly at your convenience with VTpass, no need to rush or queue in banks. Just visit vtpass.com! Innovation never stops here. We remain committed to making payment for everyday services easy and stress-free!

5 Electrical Safety Tips For This Rainy Season

Safety tips for the rainy season on VTpass

While the rainy season this year may seem to have arrived earlier than usual, we are very glad that the hot air has been lifted.

Marked with increased rainfall, thunderstorms, high winds, and flood, the rainy season could see a lot of electrical accidents, especially since water is a good conductor of electricity.

However, that informs the need for us to pay more attention to safety when dealing with electrical appliances this season.

Here are a few electrical safety tips you may need in this rainy season:

  1. Stay away from Flooded Areas:

Everyone is adviced to stay indoor or to find the closest shelter in the event of rain or storm.  But if you have to go out, it would be wise to avoid flooded areas, especially those close to heavy electrical equipment.

Pay electricity bills on VTpass

2. Stay away from power lines during a storm:

The human body is a ready conductor of electricity and as such,  It is advised that you stay at least 10 feet away from a power line and anything touching it.

The proper way to move away from the line is to shuffle away with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground at all times. This way, it will minimize the potential for a strong electric shock.

3. Never leave Cut Wires astray:

In cases where you have wires on the floor or lying on the road in your area, it will be wise to either get a DisCo official to reconnect or safely tuck away the wires before the event of a rainstorm.

These wires may cause severe electrical hazards if they come in contact with water (provided current is flowing through the wire).

4. Avoid outdoor electrical tasks during rainfall:

Avoid high altitude during rainfall, as that presents a real danger of being struck by lightning – especially when climbing poles.

Never attempt electrical chores if you are not a trained engineer but if you have to, avoid doing this under the rain.

5. Take caution when close to Water:

Never touch anything electrical with wet hands or bare feet, always use caution when operating electrical appliances near water sources and all appliances.

Pay your electricity bills on VTpass

Remember that your correct meter number must be supplied when buying prepaid electricity.

Like our page on Facebook if this post was helpful