In a significant move to address the long-standing issue of estimated billing in the electricity sector, the federal government has announced plans to purchase and distribute two million prepaid meters to Nigerians by the end of the first quarter of 2025. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance transparency and fairness in electricity consumption across the country.
During a recent commissioning of Mobile Power Substations in Oyo and Ogun states, the Minister of Power emphasized the government’s commitment to improving the power supply and ensuring that consumers are not unfairly charged. He stated, “An Estimated Billing System is ripping off consumers; hence the reason the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Power, is purchasing ten million prepaid meters to be distributed across the country.”
The distribution of these two million meters is the first phase of a larger plan to roll out a total of ten million prepaid meters nationwide over the next five years. This initiative aims to empower consumers by providing them with greater control over their electricity usage and billing.
Adelabu highlighted that President Bola Tinubu is dedicated to achieving an uninterrupted power supply, but he stressed that this goal requires the cooperation of consumers. He urged the public to refrain from bypassing connections and vandalizing electricity infrastructure, which not only disrupts power supply but also incurs significant costs for the government in replacing stolen equipment.
In addition to the prepaid meter initiative, the Minister addressed the rising cost of power supply, noting that it is a challenge faced globally. He assured Nigerians that the government is actively working to alleviate the financial burden through renewable energy initiatives.
“The Renewable Energy Initiative of the Federal Government aims to alleviate the burden of the rising cost of energy,” Adelabu stated. He also announced plans to deploy an Alternative Renewable Energy Grid and Solar Energy Grid to universities, teaching hospitals, and research institutes nationwide, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
As the government moves forward with these initiatives, it aims to create a more equitable and efficient electricity system that benefits all Nigerians.
