The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, has approved 30 billion naira for the third phase of the Meter Acquisition Fund to provide free electricity meters for unmetered Band A customers and expand coverage among Band B consumers.

The commission also directed electricity distribution companies to complete all installations under the programme by May 31, 2027, warning that consumers must not be charged for the meters.

NERC disclosed this in Order No. NERC/2026/121, which took effect on November 2, 2026, stating that the funds would be shared among the 11 distribution companies based on their contributions to the fund.

The regulator said the distribution companies must conduct transparent procurement processes involving approved local meter manufacturers and suppliers.

It added that 70 per cent of payments would be released after verification of delivered meters, while the remaining 30 per cent would be paid after installation is confirmed.

The commission warned electricity distribution companies and their agents against selling meters provided under the programme, stressing that the initiative is designed to protect consumers from estimated billing.