- Dr. Ugochukwu E. Ifediora
- DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17145101
- GAS Journal of Engineering and Technology (GASJET)
Nigeria’s electricity sector continues to grapple with persistent challenges including low access to meters, inaccurate billing, energy theft, and weak revenue collection. Despite government-led interventions such as the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme and the National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP), an estimated 22.5 million electricity users remain unmetered, exacerbating inefficiencies and undermining consumer trust. This paper examines Fedironics Intelligent Metering Company Limited’s iMeter smart metering innovation as a case study of technological and business model disruption in the Nigerian electricity landscape. Drawing on case study methodology, the analysis explores how iMeter leverages Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing to provide accurate consumption data, real-time energy management tools, and flexible payment models. Beyond its technical features, the study situates iMeter within broader policy frameworks, evaluates its potential market impact, and discusses its contribution to sustainable development goals (SDGs). Findings suggest that iMeter can significantly reduce estimated billing, improve utility revenue assurance, and empower consumers, while also contributing to energy efficiency and carbon reduction. The discussion also highlights risks such as financing adoption, regulatory alignment, and consumer education. This paper concludes that iMeter represents a scalable model for addressing electricity metering challenges in Nigeria and offers lessons for broader application across Sub-Saharan Africa’s energy transition.
