14/06/2025
Nigeria's Bright Move: Free Electricity Meters Coming by 2025
In a bold step towards revolutionizing the power sector, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the full rollout of free electricity meters under the much-anticipated Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI). Targeted for completion by the fourth quarter of 2025, this initiative aims to deliver over six million meters directly to users, making estimated billing a thing of the past.
Powering Up the Initiative
The PMI is more than just a fancy name; it's part of a larger energy reform strategy championed by President Bola Tinubu. At a recent Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry Stakeholders Meeting in Lagos, Eriye Onagoruwa, the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, revealed that the initiative will be funded through a combination of the Federation Account, the Meter Asset Fund, and the Distribution Sector Recovery Programme.
High-Consumption Areas First
But wait, there’s a strategy to the rollout! The focus will initially be on high-consumption zones—those lucky Band A customers who enjoy maximum energy supply. Onagoruwa explained that this targeted approach aims to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the power supply system that has long grappled with billing inefficiencies.
A Blueprint for Success
"Key to our success is streamlining the installer certification process, enhancing our communication infrastructure, and ensuring everyone involved is ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work," Onagoruwa assured the stakeholders. This commitment to collaboration involves strategic coordination among the Bureau of Public Enterprises, the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria, and the energy distribution companies.
Breaking Down the Numbers
The government plans to kick off the initiative with around 75,000 meters expected to arrive via the International Competitive Bid 1 by April 2025, followed by a second wave of 200,000 in May 2025. With such ambitious numbers, stakeholders are optimistic that this accelerated metering will help distribution companies (DisCos) secure better revenues while simultaneously mending the trust of consumers.
Turning the Tide
For years, the lack of comprehensive metering has crippled transparency and compromised the financial viability of Nigeria's power sector, leaving millions at the mercy of estimated billing. The PMI aims to change this narrative, offering hope and healthier energy consumption practices.
Changing the Game
Since its introduction in 2023, the PMI has been a cornerstone in President Tinubu’s quest to tackle systemic inefficiencies in electricity billing and supply. And while we're at it, let’s not forget the communication from Ikeja Electric, which recently announced its discontinuation of outdated meter technologies—so buyers be aware!
A Bright Future Ahead
As Nigeria gears up for this significant shift in the power sector, fingers crossed, the future seems a bit brighter. With free electricity meters on the horizon, we might just be bidding farewell to the dark ages of estimated billing. Stay tuned, folks, as we watch this electrifying transformation unfold!
