NERC Orders DisCos to Refund ₦20.33bn Meter Costs to Customers
Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has ruled in favor of electricity consumers, directing distribution companies (DisCos) to refund ₦20.33 billion in outstanding costs for meters bought under the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) framework.
Signed on February 27, 2026, by Musiliu Oseni, chairman,NERC and Dafe Akpeneye, commissioner Order No. NERC/2026/025 amends a 2023 directive.
It requires DisCos to disburse the funds via energy credits over 12 months starting March 1, 2026, addressing years of slow refunds.
As of December 31, 2025, DisCos owed this amount due to delays in reimbursing prepaid customers who funded their own meters.
DisCos must automate credits for the full MAP meter cost upon activation, disbursed monthly over 120 months based on the customer’s tariff—credits cannot offset legacy debts.
Prepaid customers will receive a monthly token by the 4th day equivalent to the reimbursement value; for arrears, they’ll get two tokens per month.
Postpaid customers will see a distinct credit line on bills subtracted from totals, with two line items monthly for arrears.
NERC mandates monthly reports on reimbursement values using an approved template, plus dedicated email channels for complaints with resolution status included.
The order aims to end delays, improve notifications, and boost sector trust. DisCos must accelerate arrears recovery over 12 months without further excuses.
This follows NERC’s February 2026 compliance review, amid ongoing power sector challenges highlighted by Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu.