The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has announced an invitation for public comments on the amendment of the cost recovery rules for independent transmission providers (ITPs). As a regulatory authority established in 2004, NERSA oversees the electricity, piped-gas, and petroleum pipelines industries. The regulator's mandate is based on several acts, including the Electricity Regulation Act and the Gas Act. NERSA is amending the Cost Recovery Rules to address key regulatory issues.
On 29 October 2026, the Energy Regulator approved the publication of a consultation paper on the draft amended rules. The consultation paper and draft amended rules are available on the NERSA website. Interested stakeholders and members of the public can access the documents under the 'Electricity', 'Consultation', and 'Notices' sections. This public consultation process aims to gather input from various parties on the proposed changes.
Written comments on the draft amended Cost Recovery Rules for ITPs should be emailed to [email protected] by 2 December 2026. The regulator has also provided a contact person, Mr Mondli Shozi, for queries and more information. His contact details include a physical address, telephone number, and email address. This allows stakeholders to reach out with any questions or concerns regarding the consultation process.
In addition to written comments, NERSA will hold a public hearing on the draft Cost Recovery Rules for ITPs. The public hearing is scheduled to take place virtually on 7 December 2026 via Microsoft Teams. The meeting will run from 14:00 to 17:00. Members of the public who wish to attend or present their views at the hearing must submit their requests by 16:30 on 2 December 2026.
The public hearing will provide a platform for stakeholders to share their perspectives on the proposed rules. NERSA has specified that it retains the right not to hold the scheduled hearing if no requests to present are received by the closing date. This emphasizes the importance of stakeholder participation in the consultation process.
The amended Cost Recovery Rules for ITPs aim to address key regulatory issues in the sector. By engaging with stakeholders and the public, NERSA seeks to ensure that the final rules are comprehensive and effective. The regulator's efforts to promote transparency and inclusivity in the consultation process are evident in the multiple avenues provided for public input.
The consultation process and public hearing demonstrate NERSA's commitment to stakeholder engagement and regulatory transparency. The regulator's actions will shape the future of independent transmission providers in South Africa. As the energy sector continues to evolve, NERSA's role in ensuring effective regulation remains crucial.
Key points
- NERSA invites public comments on draft amended Cost Recovery Rules for independent transmission providers.
- The public hearing on the draft rules will take place virtually on 7 December 2026.
- Written comments should be submitted by 2 December 2026 to [email protected].
