The Managing Director of EEDL, Engr. Nnamdi Chuka-Nwosu, made the clarification during an exclusive interview with journalists in Abakaliki on Thursday, addressing issues ranging from meter application procedures to estimated billing and regulatory compliance.
Speaking on the metering process, Chuka-Nwosu stressed that applying for a meter does not attract any charge and has been simplified for customer convenience.
“Customers can apply for meters online through our website or visit any of our Customer Service offices for guidance. The metering process is structured to ensure transparency and standard pricing,” he said.
He explained that meters are provided under the approved Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme, where licensed vendors supply meters at rates determined by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
“While EEDL facilitates the process and interfaces with customers, meter pricing is handled strictly by NERC, ensuring uniformity and regulatory compliance across the distribution companies nationwide,” he added.
The EEDL boss further disclosed that under the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) programme—designed to accelerate meter deployment nationwide—the company has installed over 1,500 meters in Ebonyi State at no cost to customers.
He also clarified that customers who choose to obtain meters through the MAP scheme would be reimbursed over time.
Customers who opt for MAP metering, he said, “will be reimbursed over time with the cost of the meter through energy units, as they recharge the meters.”
Addressing complaints about estimated billing, Chuka-Nwosu emphasized that the practice is backed by regulation and applies nationwide to customers who are yet to be metered.
“Estimated billing is not peculiar to Ebonyi State. It is implemented across the country in line with NERC regulations. We, however, encourage customers with bill related concerns to utilize our established complaint resolution channels for prompt review and necessary adjustments where necessary,” he stated.
He also clarified that the requirement for customers to engage Licensed Electrical Contractors of Nigeria (LECAN) for wiring certification is a regulatory provision and not an EEDL-specific policy. Customers are free to hire any licensed contractor of their choice, with professional fees paid directly to the contractor—not to EEDL.
EEDL reiterated that it operates uniform metering and billing policies across its franchise areas and does not apply any special regime in Ebonyi State.
The company assured residents of its continued dedication to regulatory compliance, operational transparency, and enhanced customer experience.
