Prepaid Meter in Lagos — How to Apply & What It Costs
MAP scheme · ₦81,975 single-phase · 2-3 weeks via MAP · prepaid vs postpaid
A prepaid meter is the simplest fix for the chronic estimated-bill problem in Lagos. The Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme has made installation faster and cheaper than the old direct-DisCo route. Regulated prices: ₦81,975 single-phase, ₦143,836 three-phase. Anyone asking more is taking advantage of you.
Choose a MAP provider
Pick one of the NERC-licensed MAPs (Meter Asset Providers) from your DisCo portal. Popular: MOMAS, Mojec, Smart Meter Nigeria.
Pay the regulated fee
Single-phase: ₦81,975. Three-phase: ₦143,836. Pay directly to the MAP through your DisCo''s payment portal.
Submit application + ID
Online via DisCo portal. You''ll need your NIN, valid ID, and property address with existing PHCN account number (if any).
Site inspection
MAP technician visits to check load profile, existing wiring, and meter point. Usually 3-7 days after payment.
Installation + commissioning
Installation takes 2-4 hours. Commissioning (system pairing with DisCo billing) usually same day. Total time from payment: 2-3 weeks via MAP, 4-8 weeks via direct DisCo.
A prepaid meter is real-time billing — you pay before you use, and you see consumption immediately. Postpaid (estimated billing) is the legacy system: the DisCo estimates your usage based on neighbourhood averages and sends a bill at month-end. Estimated billing is notoriously inaccurate — many Lagos households have been paying 30-50% above actual consumption for years.
Switching to prepaid often reveals your real usage is higher than the estimated postpaid bill (which tends to round down). The shock is real in month one, but afterwards you can budget exactly because you control what you spend.
EKEDC
Eko Electricity Distribution Company
Serves Lagos Island, VI, Ikoyi, Lekki, Apapa, Surulere, Yaba (parts), Ajah. Customer service: 08039054444. Generally stronger on Band A reliability.
IKEDC
Ikeja Electric
Serves Ikeja, Maryland, Yaba (parts), Surulere, Ogba, Magodo, Mainland west. Customer service: 07000453234.
Band A is ₦209.50/kWh. Bands B-E are lower. Your bill depends on the band.
A prepaid meter doesn''t add supply hours. Inverter + battery covers the gap.