The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Plc (PHED) has increased the prices of prepaid metres for the second time in as much as three months.
Converseer reports that the increment is coming in after electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) increased the prices of their prepaid metres despite the incessant collapse of the national grid.
The PHED announced the new prices in a social media post on Thursday for the 1-phase and 3-phase metres.
The new price for the 3-phase Smart Metre Plc by Armese Consulting Ltd is N228,974.99 while that of 1-phase Din-Rail Plc by Armese Consulting Ltd is N137,599.99.
Also, the new price for the 3-phase Smart Metre M-Bus Plc by Holley Metering Nig. Ltd is N228,369.22 while that of 1-phase Din-Rail Plc by Holley Metering Nig. Ltd is N137,387.39.
According to the PHED, “The new metre prices (VAT inclusive) is effective from 5th November 2024,” further noting that, “Please be informed that these prices are subject to change.”
Converseer further reports that other DisCos have increased the price of single-phase metres from approximately N117,000 to as much as N149,800.
This amount indicates an increase of 28.03 per cent or N32,800, depending on the distribution company and metre vendor.
The new prices also reflect the deregulation of metre asset providers as directed by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
This upward revision follows an earlier increase in August 2024, further amplifying concerns among electricity consumers about affordability and accessibility.
Nigerians have reacted to the increment, with most alleging that it is all a plot to continue estimated billings.
In an earlier statement, the PHED said the current outage faced by yhr region is due to a system collapse.
According to a statement signed by the management on Thursday, the PHED said, “Kindly note that the outage currently experienced in PHED franchise areas is due to system collapse.
“We are working with TCN team to ensure full restoration as soon as possible.
“All inconveniences are deeply regretted.”