NERC Approves N30bn for Fresh Tranche of Nationwide Free Metering Programme

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved N30 billion for tranche ‘C’ of the Meter Acquisition Fund, a move aimed at providing more electricity meters to households and businesses across the nation. According to THISDAYLIVE, the funds are expected to be utilized to complete installations before May 2027.

This development is significant as it continues the government’s commitment to improving the electricity supply situation in the country by ensuring accurate billing and reducing estimated bills. The fund is part of the nationwide free metering programme, which was launched in 2021 to provide free electricity meters to all customers.

Although NERC has not yet disclosed the number of meters that will be provided under this tranche, the commission stated that the fund will be disbursed to distribution companies (DisCos) for the procurement and installation of the meters.

It is worth noting that the nationwide free metering programme has faced challenges in the past, with delays in the distribution of meters and allegations of corruption. The successful implementation of this latest tranche will depend on the transparency and efficiency of the process, as well as the ability of the DisCos to effectively manage the distribution of the meters.

With this latest approval, the government is demonstrating its commitment to addressing the long-standing issues in the electricity sector, particularly the need for accurate metering and billing. The success of this programme will have a significant impact on the lives of millions of Nigerians, providing them with more reliable electricity supply and fairer bills.