NERC Approves N30bn for Metering Band A, B Customers

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has announced the operationalisation of Tranche C of the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF), effective 2 November 2026. This tranche involves an approval of N30bn to be distributed among the eleven Distribution Companies (DisCos) in proportion to their contributions to the Fund. The goal is to meter all remaining unmetered Band A customers and accelerate the metering of Band B customers.

The funding will be distributed equitably across states within the respective DisCo franchise areas. According to NERC, the order for the approval establishes a transparent framework for implementing the third tranche of the Presidential Metering Initiative. This initiative aims to accelerate the closure of Nigeria’s metering gap. The commission has prescribed maximum procurement prices based on the median national MAP online bid prices from the September 2026 bid cycle.

Under the Order, DisCos are required to undertake transparent procurement processes involving eligible Local Meter Manufacturers and Assemblers (LMMAs) and Meter Asset Providers (MAPs) with verified meter stock. Payment to selected providers will be made in two stages: 70% upon verified delivery of meter stock and the remaining 30% upon confirmation of complete installation. This ensures accountability and transparency in the procurement process.

All meters supplied and installed under the MAF programme will be provided free of charge to customers. Every meter must prominently display the relevant DisCo’s name, the applicable MAF tranche, and the inscription “NOT FOR SALE”. This measure aims to prevent the resale of meters and ensure that customers are not charged for the meters.

The Order also provides sanctions where DisCo defaults impede meter installation. Where a DisCo initiates the relocation of an existing customer’s connection point for revenue protection purposes, the cost shall be borne by the DisCo. This measure aims to protect customers from unnecessary costs and ensure that DisCos are held accountable for their actions.

To ensure accountability and transparency, the Order prescribes monitoring, reporting, and evaluation requirements for the Fund Manager, DisCos, and participating meter providers. All supply and installation contracts must be filed with the Commission. All meter installations under Tranche C must be completed on or before 31 May 2027. This timeline ensures that the metering gap is closed within a reasonable period.

NERC urges all stakeholders to comply strictly with the provisions of the Order. The commission reinforces its commitment to closing the national metering gap, improving revenue assurance, enhancing service delivery, and protecting electricity consumers. The successful implementation of this programme will have a positive impact on the Nigerian electricity sector, ensuring that customers are metered and billed accurately.

Key points

• NERC allocates N30bn to meter unmetered Band A and B customers
• The funding will be distributed equitably across states within the respective DisCo franchise areas
• All meters supplied and installed under the MAF programme will be provided free of charge to customers