The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has clarified that contrary to widespread public belief, not all electricity meters being deployed across the country are free, urging consumers to properly understand the different metering frameworks currently in operation.
The clarification was made by NERC following increasing confusion among electricity consumers, many of whom assume that every meter installation should come at no cost. The commission explained that while the Federal Government is implementing free metering programmes, these do not automatically cover all customers at the same time.
According to NERC, meters provided under the Federal Government–funded Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP) are installed without any upfront payment from beneficiaries. These meters are procured with government and development partner funding and are meant to reduce the country’s long-standing metering deficit.
Under the DISREP arrangement, electricity distribution companies (DisCos) are required to install the meters free of charge once they are allocated to customers. NERC stressed that any official demanding payment for meters under this programme is acting illegally and risks regulatory sanctions.
However, the commission noted that customers who are unwilling to wait for government-funded meters have the option of acquiring meters through the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme. Under this framework, customers pay for meters upfront but are refunded over time through energy credits.
NERC explained that the MAP scheme was introduced to accelerate metering nationwide and reduce estimated billing, particularly in areas where government-supplied meters are yet to reach. Customers are advised to transact only with approved MAP operators to avoid fraud.
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The commission also addressed misconceptions around the term “free meters,” explaining that while some meters are installed at no immediate cost, the overall investment is eventually recovered within the electricity tariff structure, rather than through direct payment by consumers.
NERC further revealed that millions of electricity users across Nigeria remain unmetered, a situation that continues to fuel billing disputes between consumers and DisCos. Closing this metering gap, the commission said, remains a top priority for sector reforms.
As part of consumer protection efforts, the regulator reiterated that DisCos are not allowed to charge customers for the replacement of faulty meters, except in cases where the damage is caused by customer negligence or tampering.
NERC urged electricity consumers to report any illegal charges or extortion related to meter installation, assuring the public that enforcement actions will continue to ensure transparency, fairness, and improved confidence in Nigeria’s electricity supply system.
