Relocating? NAWEC Says You Must Buy a New Meter for D8,500
NAWEC Policy announcement © NAWEC
By Yusef Taylor, @FlexDan_YT
The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) has introduced a new meter transfer policy that prevents customers from moving their meters when relocating. Under the new directive, anyone changing residence will be required to purchase a new meter at a cost of D8,500.
The announcement, issued on 23rd October 2025, sparked public concern, prompting journalists to seek clarification from NAWEC Public Relations Officer (PRO), Mr Buba Badjie. Although out of town, Mr Badjie responded to five key questions about the new policy.
According to the circular, “All electricity meters are now permanently assigned to their installation locations. NAWEC no longer permits meter transfers under any circumstances.”
In its Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), NAWEC explained that the change aims to ensure accurate billing, safety, and accountability. “Meters are tied to specific premises to ensure accurate billing, safety, and accountability. Moving them disrupts these controls and is strictly prohibited,” the company noted.
When asked about the motivation behind the policy, Mr Badjie stated that "the policy was introduced to ensure proper management and accountability of electricity meters, prevent unauthorised relocations, and improve service delivery. It took immediate effect from the date of the announcement.”
He added that the new rule was developed in consultation with the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy as part of broader sector reforms aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and customer service.
NAWEC Policy announcement © NAWEC
Customers Who Move Must Buy New Meters
Addressing one of the most pressing concerns, the PRO confirmed that customers who relocate will indeed have to buy new meters.
“Yes. Since meters are now permanently linked to the property or installation address, customers who move to a new location will need to apply and pay for a new meter. The payment made previously remains valid for the meter at its original location," Mr Badjie clarified.
He further warned that “any customer or individual who illegally transfers, tampers with, or relocates a meter without authorisation from NAWEC will face disconnection, penalties, and possible legal action in accordance with company regulations.”
Journalists Seek Further Clarification
Our reporter has submitted five additional questions to NAWEC for clarification and will publish the responses once received:
Can we have the full written version of the policy?
NAWEC meters are prepaid. How does a decision based on “accurate billing” apply to prepaid systems?
Customers who have already paid D8,500 must pay again when they move — how is this fair?
If the meter remains NAWEC’s property, what exactly does the D8,500 payment cover?
Will customers who cannot afford a new meter be left without electricity or face prosecution?
Public Outcry Over “Unfair” Policy
The announcement has triggered a wave of criticism from customers on social media.
One concerned customer wrote:
“NAWEC should seriously review this new policy. It’s unreasonable to charge customers D8,500 for a meter and still claim ownership of it. Many of us buy personal meters because we live in compounds where several apartments share one. It’s only fair that we can take our meter when we move. NAWEC should focus on improving water supply and service delivery instead of restricting responsible customers.”
Another customer commented:
“This policy can’t work. After buying my meter, I’m supposed to leave it for my landlord? That makes no sense.”
Echoing similar frustration, another wrote:
“NAWEC, you must think your customers are foolish. How can I not move with my meter when I relocate? Why should I leave it behind for someone else to use after all the trouble I went through to get it?”
The new policy has clearly struck a nerve among Gambians, many of whom view it as unfair and burdensome at a time when living costs continue to rise.
