NERC approves fresh N30bn for 11 DisCos to provide free meters
AI Executive Briefing
Gemini Flash AI~45s readThe Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved a third tranche of N30 billion under the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) to accelerate the deployment of free meters to unmetered customers. This intervention aims to bridge the national metering gap, which currently stands at approximately 4.7 million unmetered customers.
Context & Background
- ✦As of August 2026, Nigeria had a national metering rate of 63.10 per cent, with 8.05 million out of 12.75 million active customers metered.
- ✦The MAF scheme is designed to reduce commercial and collection losses for DisCos while improving service quality and customer satisfaction across the electricity distribution sector.
Key Figures & Named Entities
NERC:The regulatory body overseeing the MAF scheme and enforcing compliance among DisCos.N79 billion:The cumulative total of funds approved across three tranches (Tranche A: N21bn, Tranche B: N28bn, Tranche C: N30bn).
Outlook & Next Steps
DisCos must conduct transparent procurement processes within 10 days and submit provider details for no-objection approval within 15 days, with all installations to be completed by May 31, 2027.
Key Takeaways
AI Summary- The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved an additional N30 billion under the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) to provide free meters to unmetered customers.
- This third tranche brings the total approved funding for meter procurement and installation across the 11 DisCos to N79 billion.
- The initiative prioritizes metering Band A and Band B customers, with a strict mandate that all meters provided under this scheme must be free of charge and labeled 'NOT FOR SALE'.
Key Facts:November 2, 2026: The NERC issued Order No. NERC/2026/121, which became effective on November 2, 2026.N79 billion: The total funding approved for the MAF scheme reached N79 billion following the latest N30 billion tranche.May 31, 2027: The deadline for completing all meter installations under this third tranche is set for May 31, 2027.
Editorial Excerpt
By Obas Esiedesa, Abuja The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved an additional N30 billion for the 11 electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) to procure and install free meters for unmetered customers, bringing total approvals under the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF)...
Frequently Asked Questions About This Story
Are customers required to pay for the meters installed under the MAF scheme?
No, NERC has explicitly stated that all meters procured and installed under the MAF framework must be provided to customers free of charge.
Which customer categories are being prioritized for this metering intervention?
The funds are specifically designated for the procurement and installation of meters for unmetered Band A and Band B customers.
