The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) on Monday announced the deregulation of meter prices under the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) Scheme for end-user customers.
A circular from the commission said the new order which is with effect from May 1, will introduce a competitive bidding process, allowing customers to choose from a variety of authorised vendors and that all meter prices within the MAP scheme would be determined through competitive bidding.
The deregulation allows all MAP permit holders to provide services across all Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) in the country, provided they meet specific requirements, while DisCos are mandated to ensure that smart meters provided by MAPs are seamlessly integrated into their head-end systems and meter data management systems.
NERC further said the deregulation introduces flexibility in the types of meters available under the MAP scheme, and DisCos can now offer basic electronic meters, IoT meters, DIN rail meters, and current limiters, depending on the customer’s energy consumption profile.
It also pointed out that we end-use customers now have the sole right to choose their preferred MAP and meter types, which align with their specific energy needs.
The NERC warned that stringent measures have been put in place to ensure timely installation of meters, with penalties for MAPs that fail to meet installation deadlines.
