In a circular issued on Monday by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the deregulation of meter prices under the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme for end-user customers has been announced. This move, effective May 1, entails determining meter prices through competitive bidding processes, providing customers with a choice of authorized vendors.

Previously, in September 2023, NERC approved price increases for single-phase and three-phase electricity meters. However, under the new directive, all meter prices will be subject to competitive bidding to adapt to changes in macroeconomic parameters, particularly exchange rates.

NERC emphasized the need for efficient pricing to enable end-users to acquire meters from MAPs of their choice based on competitive open market prices established through transparent bidding frameworks.

Furthermore, all MAP permit holders are now permitted to provide services and transact for meter provision and metering services with any Electricity Distribution Company (DisCo) in Nigeria, subject to compliance with specific DisCo requirements.

NERC has mandated that all DisCos ensure the effective integration of smart meters deployed by MAPs with DisCo head-end systems and meter data management systems to ensure seamless operations.