Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has directed all electricity distribution companies (DisCos), including the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), to cease issuing estimated bills to consumers. Effective from June 1, 2024, DisCos must provide customers with proper metering under the new directive.
The announcement was made during the launch of the O’datiwa meters, a low-cost electricity metering initiative under the Ondo State Mass Metering Programme. This program aligns with the Ondo State Electric Power Sector Law 2020 Part XII Section 77 (2)(a). Speaking through the state Coordinator of the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (SERB), Engr. Stephen Bolawole, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that DisCos must meter all facilities within 12 months from the effective date.
Governor Aiyedatiwa urged DisCos to prioritize customers currently receiving estimated bills in the mass metering program. The cost of the 'O’datiwa Meters' is set at N101,750 for a single-phase meter, N185,000 for a three-phase meter, and N78,000 for a Dinrail meter, all exclusive of VAT.
“All relevant stakeholders, including electricity distribution companies and consumers within Ondo State, are to comply with the new pricing structure as specified,” Aiyedatiwa stated. He further instructed DisCos to submit a detailed implementation plan to OSERB within 30 days, outlining their strategy for achieving full metering within the stipulated timeframe. Quarterly progress reports detailing the number of meters installed, areas covered, and challenges encountered must also be provided.
Additionally, BEDC and other DisCos must integrate the smart meters facilitated by the Ondo State Government through accredited Meter Asset Providers (MAPs) within six months. Non-compliance will result in penalties, including fines and other regulatory actions by OSERB. The order will be reviewed annually to assess its effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
