Benin power distribution coy to roll out 190,000 meters

The Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) has said that it is rolling out 190,000 meters for its customers in Edo State in the next two years.

BEDC Executive Director, Commercial, Abu Ejoor, who spoke yesterday in Benin, during the media launch of Edo State Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme, said within two years a cumulative average of about 10,000 units would be provided monthly by BEDC in designated areas within the state.

“In Edo State, we are taking off in two major locations and the area to be covered are; Government Reservation Areas to Ihama road in Edo South Senatorial district and Okpella town in Auchi, EdoNorth Senatorial district. MAP will carry out meters rollout in the areas, location by location, route by route and street by street,” he said.

On how to acquire the meter, he said, customers are required to complete the customer data and survey form, after which MAP officials will assess the customer’s premises in readiness for metering and he/ she would be advised on how to pay for it; whether single or three phase.

“Metering customers will encourage the development of independent and competitive meter service in the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), eliminate estimated billing by NASI, attract private investment in provision of metering service and close metering gap among others.

“Forty four per cent of BEDC’s power allocation comes to Edo State and an average of 86,062 mega wax is delivered to the state monthly.

About 14 per cent of power generated is lost due to poor network infrastructure while about 36 per cent of power generated is lost through commercial theft, illegal consumption or non- payment of bills,” he said.