Electricity Featured

Metering: MAP can close metering gap in five years – Firm

By Shile GIWA

A prepaid metre production company, Sabrud Consortium says the Metre Asset Provider (MAP) programme can close the country’s metering gap in five years if well implemented.

Mr Chiso Nwangwu, Managing Director of the company told newsmen in Awka on Wednesday that MAP was a well thought out programme which should be encouraged by all to succeed.

He said Abuja based firm had been approved for the MAP programme with a “non objection license” adding that the company was fully prepared for its effective takeoff.

The engineer said his firm had the capacity to reach 30 per cent of national demand and that covering its area of franchise would not be a challenge.

He said Sabrud would also provide technical support for other approved metre asset providers in the industry.

“Sabrud has capacity to meet 30 per cent local content approved by Nigeria Electricity Regulation Commission (NERC), with the capacity to meet franchise areas in meter availability, finance and technical support.

“We strongly support other registered meter service providers accredited by NERC, NEMSA and other regulatory agencies.

“The MAP policy will help in closing the metering gap in a space of at least five and it will also be of immense benefit to all stakeholders including Discos, Gencos and TCN by improving the financial efficiency of power sector.

“The Federal Government got the Road Map right and should be encouraged,” he said.

Nwangwu further said electricity customers would have a more direct access to metres with various payment packages that would be pocket friendly.

He however, encouraged customers to pay for metres and services preferably upfront to help licensees recoup their investment to guarantee better service.

He said another benefit of MAP will be massive generation of direct and indirect jobs along the value chain.

“As a matter of fact, MAP will create a lot of direct and indirect jobs, more than 10,000 across professional and artisans will be employed.

“It is not going to be expensive for electricity consumer to procure these meters.

“It will not be expensive to acquire meter under MAP, because the payment terms has been categorised into different financing period.

“Customers can choose the one that best suits their financial and economic status, so burden will be minimal on the customer.

“Distribution Licensee should encourage customers to opt for the upfront payment class which will greatly help the MAP to recoup their investment.

“This will ultimately make meters available for those low income customers who will like to elect for other categories of financing plan.”====NAN

 

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