DisCos Reject Minister's Free Meter Plan, Citing Cost Concerns

The Distribution Companies (DisCos) have rejected the Minister of Power's plan to provide free prepaid meters, expressing doubts about its feasibility and cost implications. The Minister's statement was viewed as a political maneuver, with DisCos highlighting the lack of consultation with key stakeholders like meter manufacturers and distributors.

The Federal Government had mandated DisCos to install meters free of charge for consumers, funded by the World Bank, but DisCos argue that the 10-year cost recovery plan is unsustainable. Adelabu, a representative of the DisCos, warned against extortion by DisCos officials during meter installations and emphasized the need for transparency in the process.

The DisCos raised concerns about the financial burden of the free meter scheme and called for a more sustainable cost recovery plan to ensure the sector's viability.