Overview

The Meter Asset Provider Regulations, 2018, issued by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) on March 27, 2018, aims to eliminate estimated billing and address the metering gap in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) within three years. Key provisions include: competitive engagement of Meter Asset Providers (MAPs) by electricity distribution companies (Discos) through a transparent process; meters installed at customer premises at Commission-approved costs; Discos must complete MAP engagement within 120 days based on deployment plans and targets. The regulation clarifies that current meters are not free, as tariffs include a return on meter asset investment. Under the new framework, customers pay a metering service charge after meter installation, with new tariff classes for metered customers lower than those with legacy meters. Defective meters must be repaired or replaced free within two working days (unless customer-caused), with billing based on average of last three months if delayed. Customers relocating within franchise area can transfer services, and metering service charges cease upon full amortization of the meter asset. Customers opting for upfront payment are exempt from ongoing charges, with meter installation within ten working days. Existing metering contracts transition to the new regulation after December 31, 2018.

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