Energy Law at Eswatini
Eswatini's energy legal framework is undergoing significant reforms aimed at modernizing the sector, promoting renewable energy, and enhancing regulatory oversight. Here's an overview of the key legislation and developments shaping the country's energy landscape:
⚖️ Key Energy Legislation
1. Electricity Act, 2007
The Electricity Act, 2007, regulates the generation, transmission, distribution, and supply of electricity in Eswatini. It mandates that any entity engaging in these activities must obtain a license from the Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA). The Act also establishes the legal framework for the deregulation of the electricity sector, moving away from the previous monopoly structure.
2. Energy Regulatory Authority Act, 2007
This Act established ESERA as an independent body responsible for regulating the energy sector. ESERA's duties include licensing, tariff approval, monitoring compliance, and resolving disputes within the electricity and petroleum industries. The Act empowers ESERA to ensure the security of supply and promote competition in the energy market.
3. Swaziland Electricity Company Act, 2007
This Act transformed the Swaziland Electricity Board into the Swaziland Electricity Company (SEC), a state-owned enterprise. The SEC is responsible for the generation, transmission, distribution, and supply of electricity. It operates under the regulatory oversight of ESERA and is subject to the provisions of the Electricity Act and the Energy Regulatory Authority Act.
4. Petroleum Act, 2020
The Petroleum Act, 2020, regulates the petroleum sector in Eswatini. It covers the wholesaling, retailing, licensing, inspection, and testing of petroleum products. The Act aims to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the petroleum industry and is administered by ESERA
🏛️ Regulatory Authorities
Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA)
ESERA is the central regulatory body overseeing the energy sector in Eswatini. It is responsible for licensing energy operators, approving tariffs, ensuring compliance with regulations, and resolving disputes. ESERA also plays a pivotal role in promoting renewable energy and facilitating the integration of independent power producers into the national grid.
🌱 Renewable Energy Initiatives
Energy Master Plan 2034
The Energy Master Plan 2034 outlines Eswatini's strategy for achieving a sustainable and affordable energy supply. It emphasizes the development of renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, and biomass, to reduce dependence on imported electricity and enhance energy security. The plan also highlights the importance of private sector participation and the need for regulatory reforms to facilitate the growth of renewable energy.
Embedded Generation Bylaws
ESERA is developing Embedded Generation Bylaws to regulate decentralized electricity generation systems, such as rooftop solar panels. These bylaws aim to promote the use of renewable energy at the consumer level, facilitate grid integration, and establish clear guidelines for net metering and billing. Public consultations on the draft bylaws are ongoing, with input from various stakeholders being considered.
🔄 Ongoing Legislative Reforms
Recognizing the rapid changes in technology and the increasing number of players in the energy sector, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy is reviewing the Electricity Act, the Energy Regulatory Authority Act, and the Electricity Company Act. The review process includes stakeholder consultations and aims to update the legislation to address contemporary challenges and align with international best practices. (
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