Nigerian Power Users Urged to Update Prepaid Meters Ahead of Critical Deadline

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission Advises Immediate Prepaid Meter Updates to Prevent Loss by November 2024

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission has issued a vital advisory to electricity consumers nationwide, urging them to promptly update their prepaid meters to prevent potential meter loss by November 2024. This proactive step comes as a power distribution company highlights that failure to update prepaid meters will result in their deactivation, aligning with the global standard for such meters.

In a recent communication on X (formerly Twitter), the commission shared, “Is your prepaid meter due for an upgrade? Brace for November 2024 when recharging might be hampered. Updating is a hassle-free process and incurs no cost. Each Disco (distribution company) will provide two complimentary Key Change Tokens to facilitate the meter update. This action will maintain your meter’s units and regular functionality. Contact your respective Disco for further guidance.”

Meanwhile, Kaduna Electric has taken the initiative to educate customers on how to navigate the prepaid meter upgrade process through an informative video. Umar Gumel, Head of Non-Maximum Demand Metering at Kaduna Electric, emphasized the global significance of this development. He stated, “The worldwide adoption of the Standard Transfer Specification (STS) mandates a ‘Roll Over’ by November 2024. To comply, all meters must undergo a specified upgrade.”

Gumel underlined the urgency, explaining that meters failing to receive the upgrade token will become non-operational, causing substantial losses. He elaborated on the cost implications, revealing that a three-phase meter costs N118,000, while a single-phase meter costs N63,000.

Kaduna Electric is actively seeking collaboration and understanding from power consumers under its jurisdiction. Gumel encouraged customers to obtain the rollover token from the Disco’s cash offices, similar to purchasing electricity tokens. Once entered into the meter, the token triggers an automatic upgrade without affecting existing data or meter speed.

Gumel emphasized, “Your old token remains intact, and the meter’s speed remains unchanged. The upgrade solely involves the meter’s programming to avert the impending rollover consequences.”

The combined efforts of regulatory bodies and distribution companies aim to ensure a seamless transition for power users, preventing any disruptions due to outdated prepaid meters.