The Federal Government, through NERC, directed electricity distribution companies to publish refunds for MAP scheme customers.
NERC announced the directive via its social media handles on Monday, promoting transparency and encouraging customer participation.
The announcement followed NERC’s first 2025 NESI Stakeholders’ meeting, addressing critical sector issues, including liquidity and tariffs.
The MAP framework allows third-party investors to provide meters, while customers pay service charges for meter maintenance.
Regulations require Discos to refund customers who paid upfront for meters through energy credits, following NERC’s approved schedule.
Consumer groups reported inconsistent refunds from Discos, prompting NERC’s directive for public refund details on company websites.
“NERC directed Discos to publish MAP refund details online, demonstrating commitment, consistency, and encouraging wider customer participation,” it stated.
Nigeria has over seven million unmetered electricity consumers, prompting the government’s renewed efforts to close the metering gap.
Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Energy, Olu Verheijen, emphasized plans to meter all customers and reduce losses.
Verheijen explained metering ensures accurate consumption records, improves revenue collection, and boosts sector cash flow and reliability.
She mentioned the Presidential Metering Initiative, consolidating various metering projects for enhanced financial sustainability and green access.
“It’s the initial step towards ensuring DisCos maintain necessary cash flows for investments in reliable electricity distribution,” she added.
During NESI’s meeting, stakeholders discussed tariff methodologies, market liquidity, financial assessments, and multi-tier electricity market transitions.
NERC highlighted quarterly meetings as essential for collaborative stakeholder efforts, improving Nigeria’s electricity supply industry nationwide.
The directive and broader metering efforts reflect the government’s commitment to resolving persistent challenges in Nigeria’s power sector.
