BREAKING: NERC approves N30 billion to provide free meters to Band A, Band B customers

AI Executive Briefing
Gemini Flash AI~45s readThe Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has authorized N30 billion under the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) Tranche C to provide free electricity meters to Band A and Band B customers. This initiative, part of the Presidential Metering Initiative, aims to reduce the national metering gap and improve service delivery.
Context & Background
- ✦The policy is a continuation of government efforts to address customer-funded meter concerns and improve revenue assurance for DisCos.
- ✦It mandates transparent procurement processes and strict monitoring to ensure meters are installed free of charge to consumers.
Key Figures & Named Entities
NERC (Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission):Issued Order No. NERC/2026/121 to operationalize the fund.N30 billion:The total funding approved for the third tranche of the MAF.
Outlook & Next Steps
DisCos must complete all installations by May 31, 2027, and comply with reporting and monitoring requirements to avoid sanctions.
Key Takeaways
AI Summary- The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved N30 billion for the third tranche of the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) to provide free meters to Band A and Band B customers.
- The initiative mandates that all meters supplied under this program must be provided free of charge and clearly labeled as 'NOT FOR SALE'.
- DisCos are required to complete all installations under this Tranche C funding by May 31, 2027, or face potential sanctions.
Key Facts:November 2, 2026: The Operationalisation of Tranche C of the MAF takes effect.October 2025: The Federal Government approved N28 billion for the MAF Tranche B scheme.March 2026: NERC directed DisCos to reimburse N20.33 billion to customers for previously procured meters.
Editorial Excerpt
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved N30 billion for the third tranche of the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) to provide free electricity meters to unmetered Band A customers and accelerate metering for Band B customers.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Story
Who is eligible to receive the free meters under this new NERC order?
The meters are designated for unmetered Band A customers and to accelerate metering for Band B customers.
How will the meter providers be paid for their services?
Providers will receive 70% of their payment upon verified delivery of meter stock, with the remaining 30% paid after the Commission confirms installation is complete.