ELECTRICITY CONSUMER PROTECTION: A STUDY ON POWER OUTAGE COMPENSATION TO ELECTRICITY CONSUMER

Abstract

Electricity plays a vital role in human life. Humans use electricity for convenience in daily life. In addition, it also plays an essential role in the country’s development since energy is a critical factor in driving the industry, production, transportation and distribution of goods, telecommunication, education, public health, and agriculture. Hence, if the power system in the country is interrupted, such as frequent power outages or momentary interruptions, it affects people’s daily life and possibly ruins the economy. Electricity consumers, as the end-users, therefore, ensure the right to be provided standardized electrical services. If the electricity distribution licensees provide electricity service that does not meet the standards prescribed by the law, they have the right to be heard and compensated for damages from the licensees due to providing service below such standards. This article aims to study that if electricity consumers have the right to be compensated by the electricity distribution licensees in the event of a power outage that may cause damage to them. The study includes the rights of electricity users to be provided standardized electricity services as well as the definition of power outages and the effects of power interruptions.                   

     In addition, the mechanisms to pay compensation to power users for power outages in India, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand will be investigated to make comparisons and give suggestions to the implementation of such measures in Thailand.