The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has announced a change in the pricing of metres under the Metre Asset Provider (MAP) Scheme.
News About Nigeria reports that, effective May 1, 2024, customers will now have the option to choose from different vendors through a competitive bidding process.
Previously, metre prices were regulated, but under the new order, prices will be determined through competitive bidding.
This change aims to increase transparency and lower costs for customers.
“The commission has further taken cognizance of the constraints/challenges faced by MAPs and LMMAs and therefore approved the deregulation of the prices of metres deployed under the MAP scheme with effect from May 1, 2024,” NERC stated.
“With effect from May 1, 2024, all prices of metres under the MAP scheme shall be determined through a competitive bidding process, with customers provided with a choice of authorised vendors.”
Additionally, MAP permit holders will now be allowed to offer their services across all electricity distribution companies (DisCos) in Nigeria, provided they meet certain requirements.
This expansion is expected to foster competition among MAPs, leading to better services and innovations in metering solutions.
To ensure smooth integration, DisCos must integrate smart metres provided by MAPs into their systems and maintain publicly accessible online portals displaying technical specifications and commercial terms.
The new regulations also introduce flexibility in the types of metres available under the MAP scheme, allowing DisCos to offer various options tailored to customers’ energy consumption profiles.
NERC will oversee the submission of price offers from MAPs to ensure fair competition.
MAPs must also maintain a minimum stock of 2,000-metre units and face penalties for missing installation deadlines.
With these changes, customers will have more control over their metering options, aligning with their specific energy needs.
