NERC CLARIFIES ELECTRICITY METER POLICY

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission has clarified that electricity meters currently being deployed across the country are not all free, explaining that only meters provided under government-funded programmes attract no upfront cost to consumers. Speaking during a radio programme, NERC Chairman Musiliu Oseni explained that meters supplied through the World Bank–supported Distribution Sector Recovery Programme are fully funded by the Federal Government and must be installed at no cost to customers. He noted that electricity distribution companies are barred from collecting any payment for such meters, as cost recovery is embedded within the tariff structure rather than through direct charges.

Oseni added that the Meter Asset Provider scheme remains available for customers who are unable to wait for the rollout of free meters due to logistical or timing constraints, stressing that payments under the scheme must be made only to approved companies and not individuals. He advised consumers to verify free meters by checking for the DISREP inscription on the device. The NERC chairman also disclosed that customers who previously paid upfront for meters under approved arrangements are entitled to refunds, while reaffirming the commission’s commitment to closing Nigeria’s metering gap through multiple initiatives, including ongoing presidential metering programmes.

Written by Adeyemi Adewale