The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved N30 billion for the third tranche of the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) to provide free electricity meters to unmetered Band A customers and accelerate metering for Band B consumers.
The approval is contained in Order No. NERC/2026/121 on the operationalisation of Tranche C of the MAF, which took effect on November 2, 2026. Nairametrics
The funds will be distributed among the 11 electricity distribution companies (DisCos) based on their contributions to the Meter Acquisition Fund, with installations spread across their franchise areas.
NERC directed the DisCos to conduct transparent procurement involving eligible Local Meter Manufacturers and Assemblers and Meter Asset Providers with verified meter stocks.
Under the scheme, selected providers will receive 70 per cent of their payment after verified delivery of meters, while the remaining 30 per cent will be paid after installation is confirmed.
Customers will receive the meters free of charge, and every meter supplied under the programme must carry the name of the relevant DisCo, the applicable MAF tranche and the inscription, “NOT FOR SALE.”
NERC also introduced monitoring and reporting requirements and warned that sanctions could be imposed where a DisCo’s default delays or prevents installation.
All installations under Tranche C are expected to be completed by May 31, 2027.
The latest intervention is part of the Federal Government’s broader Presidential Metering Initiative aimed at reducing Nigeria’s metering gap, improving electricity service delivery and protecting consumers.
