FG Directs Discos To Replace Obsolete Meters Amid Technology Upgrades

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has mandated electricity distribution companies (Discos) to replace any electricity meters that are phased out due to technological upgrades. While there is no official directive to phase out Unistar meters as claimed, NERC clarified that these meters would eventually be phased out because they are not compatible with new technologies. Customers using Unistar meters may soon face difficulties in purchasing electricity if the meters are not replaced, as they cannot be upgraded to handle the new Token Identifier Rollover system.

The Vice Chairman of NERC, Musiliu Oseni, emphasized that while the Discos are handling the operational aspects of phasing out the meters, they are obligated to ensure that no customer is left without a meter. Oseni stressed that during the phase-out process, customers should not be placed on estimated billing or denied access to electricity. He also highlighted that under the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) framework, if customers are required to buy new meters, Discos must provide a mechanism for refunds.

Discos are expected to provide vendor financing, Disco financing, or MAP-funded meters, ensuring that customers are aware they will be reimbursed. The commission underlined that this process should be seamless to avoid frustration among customers who may find their meters rejected when trying to vend electricity.

In response to the looming phase-out, the All Electricity Consumer Protection Forum has called on Ikeja Electric and Eko Electricity Distribution Company to halt the decommissioning of electricity meters until NERC gives formal approval. The forum criticized the Discos for proceeding with the phase-out without a clear plan for replacing the meters. In a letter dated October 15, 2024, the forum urged the companies to avoid actions that could disrupt consumers’ access to electricity.

As Nigeria continues to address its metering gap, the government and regulatory bodies are working to ensure that the transition to upgraded meters is managed without inconvenience to the consumers.