The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved ₦28 billion for the purchase and installation of prepaid meters for all unmetered Band A electricity customers across the country at no cost.
The approval was contained in the newly issued Order on the Operationalisation of Tranche B of the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF), signed by NERC’s Vice Chairman, Musiliu Oseni, and Commissioner for Legal, Licensing and Compliance, Dafe Akpeneye.
According to the commission, the ₦28 billion allocation under Tranche B is designed not only to close the metering gap for unmetered Band A customers but also to fast-track meter installation for those in Tariff Band B.
NERC explained that the funds will be shared among the electricity distribution companies (DisCos) based on their individual contributions to the Meter Acquisition Fund. The statement emphasized that all meters procured under this phase will be provided to customers completely free of charge.
“The ₦28 billion shall be distributed according to each DisCo’s contribution and is aimed at closing the metering gap for Band A and B customers. All meters under the MAF scheme will be given and installed at no cost to customers,” the order stated.
The regulatory body noted that the new order introduces a transparent and accountable framework to guide the implementation of Tranche B of the MAF scheme. It sets clear rules for DisCos and Meter Asset Providers on how to access and manage the approved funds.
It further explained that the order establishes the financial terms, repayment process, and monitoring procedures to ensure that the funds are used efficiently and that all installations meet national standards.
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In its breakdown of fund releases under the Meter Acquisition Fund, NERC recalled that in April 2024, it approved ₦21 billion under Tranche A for meter procurement across the country. The newly approved ₦28 billion under Tranche B will further deepen the metering initiative.
NERC stressed that accelerating metering for Band A customers is critical to protecting revenue, improving billing accuracy, and promoting efficient electricity consumption.
“There is an urgent need to close the metering gap across all Band A customers to ensure effective energy management and safeguard revenue collection in the power sector,” the commission stated.
This move is expected to reduce estimated billing complaints, enhance customer satisfaction, and strengthen transparency in Nigeria’s electricity distribution system.
