In a bid to enhance electricity supply and billing accuracy, the Federal Government has released ₦12.7 billion for the provision of smart meters in army barracks across the country. This initiative is part of a larger N40 billion mass metering project.
Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, announced this development during the flag-off of the metering exercise at the headquarters of the 9th Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Ikeja Military Cantonment. The exercise, which is set to be conducted in phases, will commence with the Ikeja cantonment and is expected to last for six weeks before the second phase begins.
The minister emphasized that the mass metering in army formations nationwide will enable the government to ascertain what is being consumed on a monthly basis, thereby ensuring appropriate billings and easing collections. This initiative is aimed at making estimated billing a thing of the past.
Adelabu further stated that the smart meters being installed are tamper-proof and would eliminate energy theft. These meters come with an app where customers can get statements of their consumption on a monthly basis. They also allow interconnectivity between grid and off-grid solar power supply.
In line with the energy blueprint for the country, the minister revealed plans to build off-grid power sources such as solar energy for military barracks located in remote areas without grid supply. Where there is grid supply, there would be an interchange between the grid and solar supply if not satisfied with the number of hours supplied by the Distribution Companies (DISCOs).
Ashade Olatunbosun, Executive Officer of De Haryor Global Services, stated that the second phase of the project would begin in Abuja and Enugu, simultaneously. He added that military formations across the 11 electricity distribution companies (DisCos) would benefit from the exercise.
As the nation watches this development, one question lingers: Will this smart metering revolution light up the path to a brighter future for Nigeria’s power sector?