NERC Sets Strict Deadline For DisCos To Complete Meter Upgrades

Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) have been given until January 1, 2025, to complete the upgrade of Standard Transfer Specification (STS) meters for their customers.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) issued the ultimatum during the Fourth Quarter 2024 Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) stakeholders’ meeting, warning that penalties will be imposed on non-compliant operators.

In a statement released via its X handle, NERC emphasized the urgency of the matter: “NERC has directed DisCos to rapidly conclude the migration of STS-Meters for all their customers to prevent disruption of service.

“During the Q4 NESI Stakeholders Meeting, the Commission warned that daily penalties would be imposed for each meter not migrated effective from 1st January 2025.”

The Commission also reiterated that DisCos are obligated to replace obsolete or faulty meters within their franchises.

Under the Customer Protection Regulation 2023, DisCos cannot charge customers for such replacements or revert them to estimated billing.

At a prior stakeholders’ meeting, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr. Tunji Bello, urged DisCos to prioritize consumer rights in metering processes.

“We are here today because consumers’ rights in metering must be a priority.

“The recent challenges, especially the arbitrary billing practices and the lack of transparency in metering, are unacceptable.

“We must ensure that consumers are treated fairly and that all practices adhere to the guidelines set out by regulatory bodies like the NERC,” Bello stated.