A new price regime has been introduced by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, for the single to three phase meter users. According to report, the adjusted price of a single phase meter from N58,661.69 to N81,975.16. The adjusted price for the three phase meter from N109,684.36 to N143,836.10.
The new price regime was contained in the ORDER NO: NERC/2024/040 issued by the Commission’s Chairman, Engr. Sanusi Garba and Commissioner Legal and Licensing Compliance, Barrister Dafe Akpeneye.
The title of the order is “The deregulation of meter prices for meters deployed under the Meter Asset Provider Scheme.”
The Order stated that the Meter Asset Provider and National Mass Metering Regulations (the “Regulations”) provide for the metering of end-use customers of successor electricity distribution licensees (“DisCos”). Section 8(1 )(c) of the Regulations provides that “the cost of single phase and three phase meters for MAPs, inclusive of all other associated costs of installation and warranties shall continue to be at the regulated rates approved by the Commission.”
NERC said the Meter Asset Providers (MAPs) and Local Meter Manufacturers Associations (LMMAs) have requested a further review of meter prices. This is in consideration of significant changes in NGN/USD foreign exchange rate and inflation rate since the last price review in September 2023. And the significant changes in these macroeconomic variables has constrained their ability to supply meters at the approved regulated price.
The Order stated that the Commission has noted the need for the efficient pricing of meters. This is to respond more quickly to changes in macroeconomic parameters, particularly exchange rates.
“The Commission has further taken cognizance of the constraints/challenges faced by MAPs and LMMAs. And, therefore, approved the deregulation of prices of meters deployed under the MAP scheme with effect from 1 May 2024.”
NERC said, “the Commission hereby, orders: with effect from May 1, 2024, all prices of meters under the MAP scheme shall be determined through a competitive bidding process. With customers provided with a choice of authorized vendors.
“The combined effects of sections 8(1 )(c), 8(1 )(d), 16(1 )(h), 31 and 32(1 )(b) of the Regulations on the regulated pricing of meters deployed under the MAP scheme is hereby derogated.
“The cost of prices of meters deployed under the MAP scheme is HEREBY DEREGULATED to enable customers acquire meters from MAPs.”
NERC, also, noted that the choice is based on competitive open market prices determined from transparent bidding frameworks.
The Order noted that all MAP permit holders are henceforth, eligible to provide services. And transact for the provision of meters and metering services with any DisCo in the Federal Republic of Nigeria with their existing permit.
NERC stated that the lifting of the restriction on permitting to operate in all DisCos is subject to the mandatory requirement for MAPs to comply with the associated DisCo specific requirements/specifications.
The Commission added that all DisCos shall ensure the effective and seamless integration of smart meters deployed by MAPs with the DisCos head-end systems and meter data management systems.
NERC further noted that all DisCos shall provide a publicly accessible online portal on their website. Where prospective MAPs can view the DisCo’s technical specifications and commercial terms for participation as a MAP within its network area.
The Order also added that all DisCos are required to conduct a thorough test and confirmation of specifications for new meters proposed by a prospective MAP. This must be concluded no later than 20 working days from the date the proposed MAP fulfils all the requirements specified on the online portal to participate within its network area.
source: The Nation
