Meter manufacturer says NERC directive to roll out new meters from May 1 can’t work

One of the licensed Meter Asset Providers (MAP) has described as unrealistic, the directive by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to begin roll-out of new meters from May 1.

Momas Electricity Meter Manufacturing Company Limited (MEMMCOL), which addressed newsmen in Lagos on Sunday, explained that some modalities need to be in place before that can work.

NERC had on April 3, 2018, introduced the MAP regulation to new investors in the power sector to fast-track the roll-out of meters through the engagement of third-party investors.

However, Kola Balogun, chairman of the MEMMCOL has highlighted some of the challenges posing threat to the order.

READ ALSO: NERC to begin roll-out of meters May 1

He said “The directive cannot work; in the first instance, consumers needed to be educated about what is expected of them to have access to MAP licensee.

“Secondly, consumers have to be informed on the methods of acquiring meters, whether by payment or by investment.

“Lastly, every manufacturer (licensee) that wants to roll out meters needs a grace of three months to enable them have the meters available in their warehouses.

“The modality to start rolling out meters has to be put in place viz a viz all the various documentations that are required and the infrastructure that will make deployment a smooth running.”

Balogun said when the modality is put in place, the firms can begin the rollout of meters effectively by July.

“If we are licensed this month (April), three months are enough for us to prepare, that is April May and June, while in July we start implementation,” he said.

“Except for few numbers of us who have some stock at hand that can roll out but the modality to roll out is also a question.

“Apart from NERC giving licenses, we still need processes to be put in place before meters will get to consumers because we need to train the meter installers, they need to be adequately trained on installation in consumers’ premises.”

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