The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved N30 billion for the third tranche of the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF), aiming to provide free electricity meters to all remaining unmetered Band A customers and accelerate metering for Band B customers. The regulatory body announced the approval in Order No. NERC/2026/121, which took effect on November 2, 2026, marking a significant step in addressing the country’s persistent metering gap.
Under the new arrangement, the N30 billion will be distributed among the 11 electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) in proportion to their respective contributions to the fund. NERC stated that this tranche is designed to ensure the equitable distribution of meters across states within each DisCo’s franchise area. The Commission directed the DisCos to conduct transparent procurement processes involving eligible Local Meter Manufacturers and Assemblers (LMMAs) and Meter Asset Providers (MAPs) that possess verified meter stocks.
To control costs, maximum procurement prices have been established based on the median national MAP online bid prices recorded during the September 2026 bid cycle. Payment to selected meter providers will occur in two stages: 70 percent upon verification of meter stock delivery and the remaining 30 percent after confirmation of complete installation. NERC emphasized that all meters supplied and installed under the MAF program must be provided to customers free of charge.
The order mandates that each meter must prominently display the name of the relevant DisCo, the applicable MAF tranche, and the inscription “NOT FOR SALE.” Additionally, the Commission stipulated that if a DisCo initiates the relocation of an existing customer’s connection point for revenue protection purposes, the distribution company must bear the cost. NERC warned that sanctions would apply in cases where defaults by DisCos impede or delay meter installation.
To ensure transparency and accountability, the order establishes specific monitoring, reporting, and evaluation requirements for the Fund Manager, DisCos, and participating meter providers. All supply and installation contracts under Tranche C are required to be filed with the Commission. The installation of all meters under this tranche must be completed on or before May 31, 2027.
NERC urged electricity distribution companies and other stakeholders to comply strictly with the order, describing the initiative as part of efforts to close the national metering gap, strengthen revenue assurance, improve service delivery and protect electricity consumers.
<small>Source: Vanguard News — read the original story there.</small>
