Are you looking for how to obtain NERC MSP License in Nigeria for Meter Importers and Installers.This 2025 guide explains the full application process, requirements, costs, and tips for Lagos, Abuja, and nationwide applicants.
The Meter Service Provider (MSP) License is a mandatory license issued by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) that authorizes companies to engage in meter-related services within Nigeria’s power sector. This license serves as the legal framework governing the importation, manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of electricity meters in Nigeria.
Obtaining an MSP License ensures your business operates within the regulatory standards established by NERC, which aims to improve metering efficiency and reliability in Nigeria’s electricity distribution network. In this article, we will cover everything your business needs to be able to successfully obtain this license , we would look at:
Table of contents
Who Needs an MSP License in Nigeria?
Your business would require an MSP License from NERC if you’re involved in any of these activities:
- Manufacturing or assembling meters locally.
- Importing electricity meters into the Nigerian market
- Installing meters for power distribution companies (DisCos) or end consumers
- Maintaining electricity meters and related metering systems
Without this license, conducting any of these activities would be considered illegal under Nigerian law, potentially leading to severe penalties and business disruption.
Types of MSP Licenses Available
NERC offers two primary categories of Meter Service Provider Licenses:
1. Manufacturing License
This license category applies to businesses that:
- Produce electricity meters within Nigeria
- Have established local manufacturing or assembly facilities
- Meet NERC’s technical requirements for meter production
2. Importer License
The Importer License is specifically designed for businesses that:
- Import meters from international manufacturers
- Distribute imported meters to DisCos and consumers
- Install and maintain imported metering systems
This guide focuses primarily on the Importer License requirements, which is the more common pathway for businesses entering the Nigerian metering sector.
Requirements for Obtaining an MSP License
To successfully obtain an MSP License from NERC, your business must meet several regulatory requirements spanning legal, financial, and operational aspects:
1. Corporate Registration Documentation
- Certificate of Incorporation from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association with explicit mention of metering-related business activities
- CAC 1.1 or Status Report
- Company profile detailing experience in the electricity sector
2. Tax and Financial Compliance
- Valid Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) demonstrating compliance with tax regulations
- Audited Financial Reports for the previous three years showing financial stability
- Evidence of financial capability to sustain business operations
3. Operational and Technical Requirements
- Proof of Warehousing Facilities for storing imported meters
- Repair and Maintenance Facilities for servicing meters
- Technical capacity assessment documentation
- Bank reference letter confirming financial capacity
4. Product Quality and Standards Compliance
- NEMSA Type Test Certificate
- SONCAP Certificate from the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) for imports .
- Evidence of compliance with Nigerian metering regulations.
5. Human Resources and Expertise
- CVs of key technical personnel demonstrating relevant experience
- Evidence of technical training and certification for staff
- Organizational structure showing meter service operations
Step-by-Step NERC MSP License Application Process
Follow this streamlined process to obtain your MSP License from NERC:
Step 1: Pre-Application Review
Before submission, conduct a thorough internal assessment to ensure your business meets all NERC requirements:
- Verify all documentation is complete and up-to-date
- Ensure warehousing and repair facilities are operational
- Confirm all technical staff have required certifications and expertise.
- Check compliance with all quality and technical standards
- Has metering in its CAC objects
- Complies with SON, NEMSA, and TCC regulations as well as other requirements.
Step 2: Application Submission
Submit your formal application to NERC with:
- Completed MSP License application form
- All required supporting documents as outlined above
- Payment of the prescribed application and processing fees
- Cover letter formally requesting license consideration
Step 3: Regulatory Review and Assessment
During this phase, NERC will:
- Evaluate your application for completeness and compliance
- Conduct site inspections of your facilities and operations in Nigeria (Lagos, Abuja etc).
- Verify the authenticity of submitted documentation
- Assess technical competence and financial capability
If NERC identifies any deficiencies, you’ll receive a notification to provide additional information or make necessary improvements.
Step 4: License Approval and Issuance
Upon successful evaluation:
- NERC issues the official MSP License to your company.
- Your company is added to the register of approved MSPs
- You receive authorization to commence meter service operations
Timeline and Processing Period
Typically, the licensing process takes 60 to 90 days from submission to approval, assuming all requirements are met. However, the timeline may extend if:
- Documentation is incomplete or requires correction
- Site inspection reveals areas needing improvement
- Technical assessments identify compliance issues
- Additional information is requested by NERC
Tips for a Successful Application
Increase your chances of obtaining an MSP License by following these expert recommendations:
- Ensure corporate compliance by submitting all required legal documents
- Maintain updated financial records demonstrating fiscal responsibility, your audited financials should be up to date .
- Establish and inspect adequate facilities before applying, including warehousing and repair centers
- Engage regulatory experts who have done this before and are familiar with NERC requirements
- Address any deficiencies promptly if identified during the review process
- Ensure your incorporation documents carry the relevant objects .
- Hire or retain certified engineers with NEMSA-recognized experience
The MSP License is typically valid for five years, after which renewal is required.
Yes, foreign companies can apply, but they must register a Nigerian entity and establish local operations.
The fee structure includes application fees, processing fees, and license fees. Current fee schedules can be obtained directly from https://nerc.gov.ng
No, the license is non-transferable. Any change in ownership requires a new application.
Yes, if the company meets the requirements for both license categories, it can apply for and hold both licenses simultaneously.
No , there is a separate license for companies who buy and retail of meters locally .
Get Professional Assistance
Navigating the complexities of obtaining an MSP License requires specialized knowledge of Nigeria’s electricity regulatory framework. Our team of experienced legal professionals specializes in energy sector licensing and can guide you through every step of the application process.
Don’t navigate the NERC process alone.
Our team of experienced legal professionals and consultants specializing in energy sector licensing and can guide you through every step of the application process.
We provide comprehensive support services, including:
- Documentation preparation and verification
- Regulatory compliance assessment
- Application submission and follow-up
- Liaison with NERC throughout the review process
- Post-licensing compliance support
We’ve assisted businesses across Abuja, Lagos, Rivers , and other cities get fully licensed and operational in Nigeria’s power sector.
Email: info@tcorporatelegaladvisory.com
Tel: 08062348867, 09080119975, 09080119980
TCORPORATE LEGAL ADVISORY
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information and should not be construed as legal advice. Regulatory requirements may change over time, and readers are advised to confirm current NERC requirements before proceeding with their application.
