The Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) has announced the start of a new nationwide scheme to sell electricity meters directly to customers. The move, which took effect on 3rd December 2025, aims to make meters more affordable, reduce illegal sales, and improve access to electricity services across Sierra Leone.
In a public notice shared by EDSA Management, the Authority explained that it has officially stopped using private vendors to supply meters. For many years, customers were required to buy their meters from accredited companies, including Holley Technology Ltd, Kalleone, and Elite Solution. According to EDSA, this system created many challenges, including high prices, supply shortages, and illegal sales outside official channels.
With the new policy, EDSA will now handle the sales directly, ensuring that meters are available at fixed, affordable prices for every customer.
Affordable Prices for All Customers
EDSA stated that the direct sale will help reduce the financial burden on households and businesses. The new price list is as follows:
- Single-phase meter – NLe 1,500
- Three-phase meter – NLe 2,500
In addition to the meter cost, customers must pay an inspectorate fee of NLe 150. This fee goes to a certified electrical contractor who will check the customer’s premises to make sure the building is safe and ready for installation before the meter is connected.
EDSA explained that this inspection is important because it helps protect lives and property. Many fire incidents in Sierra Leone have been linked to poor wiring or unsafe electrical connections, and the Authority wants to make sure that installations follow safety standards.
The connection fee covers both the purchase and the installation of the meter. After the inspection is done, the electrical contractor will work with EDSA to complete the installation.
Where Customers Can Buy the Meters
To make the process easy, EDSA has provided several official locations across the country where customers can collect application forms and buy their meters.
Freetown
- 36 Siaka Stevens Street
- 28 Campbell Street
- SLBC Compound, Goderich
- Wellington Sub-station
Western Area Rural
- Waterloo Sub-station, by the Military Barracks, Benguema
Provinces
- Bo – No. 1 Hospital Road
- Kenema – No. 3 Show Avenue
- Port Loko – 10 Waterworks Road
- Kambia – Malal Village
- Lungi – Main Old Airport Ferry Road
- Magburaka – TDC Road
EDSA encouraged customers to visit any of these locations for forms, payments, and support.
All meter fees must be deposited into the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank using the official account details provided:
- Account Number: 003 00111 562111 0282
- Account Name: New Service Connection
EDSA warned customers not to pay money to unofficial individuals or vendors, as the old accredited companies are no longer allowed to sell meters.
EDSA Warns Against Illegal Meter Sales
Over the years, many Sierra Leoneans have complained about illegal meter sales, overpricing, and long delays. Some people have had to pay far above the approved cost to get a meter, while others were given faulty or unapproved devices.
EDSA stated clearly that any illegal sale of meters outside the new scheme will not be accepted. Anyone selling or installing meters above the official price will face prosecution.
The Authority also urged the public to report any suspicious activity, stressing that enough meters have been made available for everyone who applies.
“EDSA Management encourages customers to report any cases of illegal meter purchases outside this scheme,” the notice reads. “Any incidences of selling meters and/or installing them above the official prices will be prosecuted.”
Why This New Policy Matters: Background and Context
Electricity access remains one of Sierra Leone’s biggest development challenges. Many households still rely on candles, generators, or small solar panels due to irregular power supply or lack of proper connections.
For many years, the process of getting an EDSA meter has been slow, expensive, and frustrating for customers. In some communities, residents waited months or even years before receiving a meter. Others were forced to pay middlemen who charged high unofficial fees.
By taking full control of sales and distribution, EDSA hopes to solve these long-standing problems.
The new measure also supports Sierra Leone’s wider goals for reliable electricity under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact, which recently approved a major investment to strengthen the electricity sector. Improving fairness, reducing corruption, and increasing access to meters are key areas the government has promised to address.
EDSA said this initiative will help ensure accurate billing for customers. Many complaints about high electricity bills come from households using shared or unmetered connections. Direct meter ownership allows customers to monitor their usage and avoid unexpected charges.
What Customers Need for the Application
To buy a meter, customers must present a valid form of identification. According to EDSA, acceptable documents include:
- National ID card
- Driver’s license
- Passport
Customers must also bring two passport-size photographs. These will be used for processing and record-keeping as part of national electricity customer data.
EDSA said these requirements help verify ownership, prevent fraud, and ensure that meters are linked to the correct address and individual.
EDSA’s Commitment to Better Service
The Authority said the new policy is part of a broader effort to improve service delivery across the country. In the public notice, EDSA emphasised fairness, transparency, and customer protection as key priorities.
“This initiative is aimed at reducing the financial burden on our valued customers while guaranteeing accurate billing, fairness, and improved service delivery,” the statement said.
EDSA added that it is committed to providing sustainable electricity services that meet the growing needs of Sierra Leoneans.
In recent months, EDSA has faced criticism over frequent power cuts in several communities, especially in the Western Area. Many customers believe that increasing access to meters is a first step in improving monitoring, managing consumption, and planning for future electricity distribution.
A Message From EDSA to the Public
In a short message accompanying the announcement, EDSA encouraged people to make use of this new opportunity:
“Dear valued customers, the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) announces the sale of affordable meters nationwide. Endeavour to take advantage of this golden opportunity.”
The Authority believes that with proper regulation, affordable pricing, and improved accessibility, more people will join the national grid, which will also help increase revenue for better electricity supply in the long run.
The introduction of direct meter sales marks a major shift in how Sierra Leone’s electricity services are managed. For many households and businesses, the affordability and clear process may offer long-awaited relief after years of challenges in accessing meters.
EDSA says it will continue reviewing and improving the process as more customers engage with the new system. The Authority encouraged the public to ask questions, seek clarification, and report any issues to ensure a smooth rollout nationwide.
