The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has clarified that not all electricity meters provided to customers are free, correcting widespread public assumptions about the country’s metering framework and the responsibilities of electricity consumers.
According to the regulator, while several government-backed programmes provide free meters to eligible customers, there are instances where consumers may lawfully bear the cost of metering, depending on the scheme under which the meter is deployed and the specific circumstances involved.
NERC explained that initiatives such as the National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP) were designed to close Nigeria’s metering gap by supplying meters to customers at no upfront cost, with repayment structured over time through electricity tariffs. However, meters acquired outside such intervention programmes, including those requested directly by customers under the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme, may require payment.
The commission stressed that under the MAP framework, customers who desire faster metering or who fall outside government-funded interventions are allowed to pay approved fees for meters, with costs regulated to prevent exploitation. NERC added that electricity distribution companies (DisCos) are prohibited from imposing arbitrary or inflated charges beyond approved rates.
NERC further noted that consumers who pay for meters are entitled to refunds or tariff adjustments in line with existing regulatory guidelines, emphasizing that transparency and consumer protection remain central to its oversight role.
The commission urged electricity consumers to verify the applicable metering scheme before making payments and to report any illegal charges or sharp practices by DisCos to NERC for investigation and enforcement.
By clarifying the distinction between free and paid metering options, NERC said it aims to improve public understanding of electricity market reforms, protect consumers from misinformation, and ensure a fair and accountable power sector as Nigeria continues efforts to achieve universal metering and reduce estimated billing.
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