PA-NPSP MAP Progress Report and Meter Availability in Nigeria

The program aims to encourage an independent and competitive meter services industry, enhance revenue assurance, and accelerate the elimination of estimated billing practices. According to the NERC data from September 2018, the total customer population in Nigeria was approximately 8.3 million, with 55% of customers unmetered. The data also showed that the DISCOs with the highest percentage of unmetered customers were Ibadan (61%), Jos (65%), and Kaduna (75%). The numbers indicated the number of meters required to meter all unmetered customers, new customers, and to regularize illegal connections. The MAP Progress Report and Meter Availability in Nigeria study was conducted by PA-NPSP to determine the current meter availability in Nigeria and the future manufacturing capabilities. The study involved conducting stakeholder meetings to better understand the issues related to meter availability and developing a survey to collect data from Meter Asset Providers (MAPs). The survey was presented to MAPs at the USAID and PA-NPSP MAP stakeholder workshop on 11 February 2020. The survey collected data on the availability of meters, the major constraints in manufacturing or purchasing meters, and if meters are held in reserve for faulty meter replacements. The data showed that the major constraints in manufacturing or purchasing meters were lead time, meter availability, and equipment costs. The study also found that some MAPs held meters in reserve for faulty meter replacements, but the numbers were not sufficient to meet the demand. The study recommended that the MAPs should prioritize the procurement of meters with shorter lead times and lower equipment costs. It also recommended that the DISCOs should work closely with the MAPs to ensure that the meters are installed and maintained properly. The study also suggested that the government should provide incentives to the MAPs to encourage them to invest in the metering industry. The study also highlighted the importance of the Meter Asset Provider Program in addressing the metering challenges in Nigeria. The program has the potential to increase the availability of meters, reduce the estimated billing practices, and enhance revenue assurance. However, the program requires the cooperation and commitment of all stakeholders, including the MAPs, DISCOs, and the government, to achieve its objectives. The study concluded that the Meter Asset Provider Program is a critical component of the Power Africa Nigeria Power Sector Program (PA-NPSP) and that its success is crucial to achieving the program's objectives. The study recommended that the program should be continued and expanded to cover more DISCOs and MAPs. It also recommended that the program should be monitored and evaluated regularly to ensure that it is achieving its objectives.