Nigerians are facing a new challenge in their quest for prepaid electricity meters. Following deregulation by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, electricity distribution companies (DisCos) have significantly increased meter prices.
Previously, a single-phase meter cost around N88,000. Under the new system, prices vary by vendor but have risen by an average of 67%, reaching as high as N147,000. Three-phase meter prices have also jumped considerably.
Consumer advocacy groups are criticizing the price hikes, arguing that the electricity sector is designed to burden the public. They point out that this comes after months of DisCos shutting down their meter application portals, further frustrating consumers.
The new pricing system allows vendors to set their own meter prices. While some variation exists, the overall increase is substantial, placing an additional financial strain on Nigerians seeking prepaid meters.
Source: PUNCH