Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
THE Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) is engaging stakeholders in Bulawayo today to assess its performance over the past year and gather recommendations on improving energy sector regulation.
The stakeholder consultation and feedback workshop, being held at a Bulawayo hotel, brings together participants to assess the authority’s performance, identify areas requiring improvement and recommend practices that should be discontinued.
The engagement is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to evaluate ZERA’s contribution to the energy sector and propose measures to improve efficiency, service delivery and regulatory oversight.
ZERA is mandated to regulate the energy sector while promoting energy efficiency, environmental protection and the responsible use of energy. It also advises and educates consumers and licensees on efficient energy use.
The authority advises the responsible minister and energy licensees on the environmental impact of energy projects before licences are issued.
Its other functions include promoting research and development, encouraging the adoption of renewable energy sources and supporting the expansion of the energy industry through technological advancement.
ZERA is also responsible for promoting effective competition within the energy industry and fostering an efficient market capable of supplying adequate energy for domestic and industrial use.
The feedback gathered at the workshop is expected to inform discussions on the authority’s priorities and regulatory approaches going forward.
