Prepaid meters underway in Lagos as Ikeja Disco lists three MAPs for supplies
The recent assurance by the Federal Government through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) that all is set for effective metering of every electricity consumer in Nigeria from May 1, seems set to yielding results.
This is promoted by the issuance of official permits to Meter Asset Providers (MAPs) of Ikeja and Benin Disco’s in accordance with Section 4(3) of the MAP regulations.
According to NERC’s General Manager, Public Affairs, in Abuja, Dr Usman Arab, permits have been granted to the MAPs that were successful in the procurements conducted by Ikeja and Benin DisCos.
NERC added that by virtue of Section 4(3) of the 2018 MAP regulations, all electricity distribution licensees are required to engage MAPs that would assist as investors to close the metering gap and thus eliminate the estimated billing in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).
Already, Ikeja Electric (IE) has appointed Mojec International Limited to provide 399,790 meters, while Consolidated Infrastructure Group Ltd is to provide 397,922 meters.
Other MAPs appointees for the Disco include New Hamshire Capital Ltd would also supply 276,699 meters within the Ikeja Disco’s coverage areas under MAP.
On the Benin Disco, NERC revealed that it has appointed FLT Energy System Ltd, G-Unit Engineering Ltd, Inlaks Power Solution Ltd, Sabrud Consortium Nigeria Ltd and Turbo Energy Ltd to provide meters within its coverage areas.
In line with the rollout circular, customers of Ikeja and Benin Discos should expect installation of the meters within 10 working days of making payment to MAPs in accordance with Section 18 (3) of the MAP regulations.
Additional notice to customers said MAPs shall charge an upfront of N36,991.50 for single phase meters and N67,055.85 for three phase meters, but was silent on how customers with outstanding arrears under estimated billing will be able to access the prepaid meters effective May 1.
NERC made it clear that “These costs of meters are inclusive of supply, installation, maintenance and replacement of meters over its technical life. The commission shall monitor closely the roll out plan of distribution licensees and overall compliance with the regulations and various service agreements by the MAP and electricity distribution licensees.”
