The Electricity Regulation Amendment (ERA) Act is set to change the electricity supply chain by introducing new players in electricity production and distribution markets. The Act would seek to encourage more investment in the power generation, promote sustainability and reduces the risk on the national grid. The new Act will also establish an independent transmission system operator that will be under the supervision of the National Transmission Company of South Africa to ensure equal treatment among public as well as private institutions. The Act will also strengthen the role of the National Energy Regulator of South Africa in its licensing powers.

The amendment was set to be implemented from 1st January 2025 but faces delays by up to 3 months. This is due to concerns raised by the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and metropolitan municipalities surrounding clause one of the ERA which changes the definition of reticulation - saying its unconstitutional. This would change municipalities’ role when it comes to the authority to trade and distribute of electricity. How will these changes affect municipalities if implementation goes forward? How will this legislation help develop more competitive tariffs? To share their insights, we are joined by….    

Guest: Professor Vally Padayachee - Power and energy expert; a former executive manager of Eskom and a former senior executive of City Power Jhb