Malawi Act or statute

Malawi legislation

Energy Regulation Act, 2004

accident reportingaccountingadministrative penaltiesadvisory committeesallowancesannual reportappeals and reviewappointmentsappropriationsarbitrationauditauthority fundingbillingboard compositionboard meetingsboard tenureby-lawscommittee administrationcommittee meetingscomplianceconfidentialityconflict of interestconsumer complaintsconsumer foradecision-makingdelegationdelegation of authoritydisciplinedisclosuredisclosure of interestsdispute resolutiondocument deliveryeligibilityenergy regulationenergy sector policyenergy supplyenergy supply regulationenergy tariffsenergy undertakingenforcementfeesfees and chargesfees and leviesfinancial reportingfinesforfeitureformal investigationsgovernancegrantsinformation disclosureinquiriesinspectionsinterestinternal governancelevieslicence applicationlicence compliancelicence conditionslicence transferlicensee accessBusiness registrationmediationmeeting proceduremeter tamperingmeter testingnotice servicepayment deadlinespolicy consultationpremises inspectionpricingprocedural fairnesspublic administrationpublic authority governancequorumreasons for decisionsrecord inspectionregulatory complianceregulatory consentregulatory decisionsregulatory definitionsregulatory governanceregulatory penaltiesregulatory returnsremoval from officeremunerationrural electrificationstaffingstandardstariffsvacanciesvoting

Jurisdiction: Malawi
Structure: 45 provisions
Citation: Act 20 of 2004
Official identity: Year 2004
Dates: Enacted 2004 · Source version 14 Jan 2025

More statute details

Official identity: Year 2004
Dates: Enacted 2004 · Source version 14 Jan 2025

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Official source

Purpose and legislative effect

“This section says the Act may be cited as the Energy Regulation Act.”

This section says the Act may be cited as the Energy Regulation Act. This section defines key terms used in the Act. The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority is established as a body corporate and may carry out powers given by the Act and the Energy Laws. This section sets out how the Authority is made up, how members are chosen, and who cannot be appointed as a member. The President appoints members of the Authority, but each appointment needs confirmation by the Public Appointments Committee.

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Short title

This section says the Act may be cited as the Energy Regulation Act.

Section 1

Meetings of the Authority

Rules for Authority meetings: the Chairperson sets timing and manner, the Authority must meet at least quarterly, and certain meeting, voting, quorum, and record-keeping rules apply.

Section 12

Energy regulation levy

The Authority may impose an energy regulation levy on energy sales, and licensees must pay it within 30 days of sale or billing, whichever comes first.

Section 24

Procedure and fees for mediation and arbitration

The Authority must make procedure rules for arbitration and mediation disputes and publish fees in the Gazette.

Section 35

By-laws

The Authority may make by-laws to give effect to the Act and to regulate energy supply, fuels, stockholdings, public safety, fees, prohibited goods, meter testing, and related matters.

Section 45

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Source record from malawilii.org · Enacted 2004 · Source version 14 Jan 2025

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Showing 45 of 45 provisions

Substitution 24Provision 13Amendment 5Repeal 2

Part I

Preliminary

§ 1Short titleShort title

This section says the Act may be cited as the Energy Regulation Act.

1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Energy Regulation Act.

Section 1Verify source

§ 2InterpretationSubstitution

This section defines key terms used in the Act.

2. Interpretation In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires— " Authority " means the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority established under section 3 ; " coal " means coal as defined in the Energy Laws ; " customer " means a person purchasing energy ; " consumer " means a person consuming energy ; " electricity undertaking " means electricity undertaking as defined in the Electricity Act ; [Cap. 73:01] " energy " means such sources of renewable and non-renewable energy as defined in this Act; " Energy Laws " means this Act and any other written law under which the Authority exercises any function; " energy undertaking " means any undertaking selling energy or commercial activities related thereto, whether public or private as defined in the Energy Laws ; " licence " means a licence issued by the Authority under this Act or any Energy Law, and includes a certificate and a permit; [definition of "licence" substituted by section 2(a) of Act 1 of 2025 ] " licensee " means a person holding a licence issued by the Authority under this Act or any Energy Law; [definition of "licensee" substituted by section 2(b) of Act 1 of 2025 ] " liquid fuels and gas " means liquid fuels and gas as defined in Energy Laws ; " member " means a member of the Authority and includes the Chairperson or Vice-Chairperson; " non-renewable energy " means those sources of energy available to mankind arising from natural processes in the interaction between the sun and the earth’s surface but not regularly replenished and these include uranium and fossil fuels e.g. coal , peat, crude oil, natural gas; " Public Appointments Committee " means the Public Appointments Committee established under section 56 (7) of the Constitution; " renewable energy " means those sources of energy available to mankind arising from natural processes in the interaction between the sun and the earth’s surface and regularly replenished and these include the sun as the primary renewable energy resource and the secondary renewable energy resources that derive from the sun including wind energy , hydro, ocean thermal, ocean wave, ocean tidal and electricity from photovoltaic effects, biomass, geothermal, etc.; " rural electrification " means rural electrification as defined in the Rural Electrification Act ; [Cap. 73:03] " Rural Electrification Fund " means the fund set up under the Rural Electrification Act ; [Cap. 73:03] " solar, wind, biogas " means solar, wind, biogas as defined in the Energy Laws ; Part II – Establishment of the Energy Regulatory Authority : Constitution, functions, powers and duties

Section 2Verify source

§ 3Establishment of the AuthorityProvision

The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority is established as a body corporate and may carry out powers given by the Act and the Energy Laws.

3. Establishment of the Authority There is hereby established an Authority known as the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (in this Act otherwise referred to as the " Authority ") which shall be a body corporate by that name with perpetual succession and a common seal and capable of suing and being sued in its corporate name and capable of acquiring and disposing of any moveable or immoveable property and performing such acts and things as bodies corporate may by law do or perform and have power to perform such functions and exercise such powers as are conferred by this Act and the Energy Laws .

Section 3Verify source

§ 4Constitution of the AuthoritySubstitution

This section sets out how the Authority is made up, how members are chosen, and who cannot be appointed as a member.

4. Constitution of the Authority (1) The Authority shall comprise— (a) a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson and five other members appointed in accordance with section 5 ; and (b) the following ex-officio members, or their designated representatives— (i) the Principal Secretary responsible for energy ; and (ii) the Chief Executive of the Authority [subsection (1) substituted by section 3(a) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (2) Members of the Authority shall be persons who have adequate knowledge and experience in any one or more of the following functional areas— (a) energy supply and demand, including the end use consumption of energy ; (b) commercial and business practices and procedures; (c) financial and funding aspects of the energy sector; (d) energy tariffs, pricing or charges; (e) energy planning and project development; (f) energy technology and standards or renewable energy technologies; (g) environmental issues; [paragraph (g) amended by section 3(b)(i) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (h) legal matters; or [paragraph (h) amended by section 3(b)(ii) and (iii) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (i) human resource management; or [paragraph (i) inserted by section 3(c) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (j) regulatory matters. [paragraph (j) inserted by section 3(c) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (3) Candidates for appointment as members of the Authority shall be selected on the basis of their knowledge and experience of national, regional and international issues relating to the supply of energy in Malawi. (4) The overall composition of the Authority shall as far as possible reflect a balance of knowledge and experience relevant to the different types of energy supply regulated by the Authority and the distinct industries involved in the energy sector. (5) Any person who— (a) is a Member of Parliament or Councillor; [paragraph (a) substituted by section 3(d) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (b) is a Minister or Deputy Minister; (c) is a holder of a licence ; (d) is an employee of a licensee ; (e) is a director of a company holding a licence under this Act; (f) holds five per cent or more shares in a company holding a licence under this Act; (g) has, in the last seven years, been convicted of an offence under this Act, or an offence involving fraud or dishonesty by a competent court in Malawi or elsewhere; or (h) is in a position where there is a material conflict of interest between the interests of the member as member of the Authority and the business interest of that member , shall be disqualified from being appointed as a member of the Authority .

Section 4Verify source

§ 5Appointment of members of the AuthorityProvision

The President appoints members of the Authority, but each appointment needs confirmation by the Public Appointments Committee.

5. Appointment of members of the Authority (1) The President shall appoint members of the Authority and each appointment shall be subject to confirmation by The Public Appointments Committee . (2) The first appointment of members of the Authority as provided for in subsection (1) shall be made within twenty-eight days of the coming into force of this Act. (3) The names of all members of the Authority as first constituted and every change of membership of the Authority shall be published in the Gazette . (4) In appointing members of the Authority under subsection (1) , the President shall have regard to the need for continuity of service on the Authority so that at least half of the members of the Authority appointed thereunder shall be reappointed for the next term of office.

Section 5Verify source

§ 6Chairperson of the AuthorityProvision

The President must appoint one Authority member as Chairperson and another member as Vice-Chairperson.

6. Chairperson of the Authority The President shall appoint one of the members of the Authority as Chairperson and another member as Vice-Chairperson.

Section 6Verify source

§ 7Tenure of office of membersProvision

Most Authority members serve for three years, may be reappointed, but cannot serve more than two consecutive terms.

7. Tenure of office of members (1) A member of the Authority , other than an ex officio member , shall hold office for a period of three years and shall be eligible for reappointment: Provided that no member may be reappointed for more than two consecutive terms. (2) The office of a member of the Authority shall become vacant— (a) if he or she resigns; (b) upon his or her death; (c) if he or she becomes bankrupt; (d) if he or she knowingly fails to declare a conflict of interest relating to any matter under consideration by the Authority ; (e) if he or she is absent, without the consent of the Chairperson or without valid excuse, from three consecutive meetings of the Authority of which he or she has had notice; (f) upon the expiry of the term of his or her appointment; (g) if he or she becomes, by reason of mental or physical infirmity, incapable of performing his or her duties as a member ; or (h) if any circumstances arise that, if he or she were not a member , would cause that member to be disqualified for appointment as a member .

Section 7Verify source

§ 8Removal from office and vacancySubstitution

A member of the Authority may be removed only for incompetence or misconduct, after due inquiry, and with approval from the Public Appointments Committee. Vacancies are filled by appointing a new member, but no one may be appointed if the remaining term is under six months.

8. Removal from office and vacancy (1) A member of the Authority shall not be removed from office except for reasons of incompetence or misconduct and only after due inquiry and subject to the approval of the Public Appointments Committee . (2) A vacancy in the membership of the Authority shall be filled by the appointment of a new member in accordance with section 5 , and the member appointed shall hold office for the unexpired period of the term of office of his or her predecessor, but a person shall not be appointed to fill a vacancy where the unexpired period is less than six months. [subsection (2) substituted by section 4(a) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (3) The period served by a person appointed under subsection (2) shall not be regarded as a term for purposes of section 7(1) , unless the period is two years or more. [subsection (3) added by section 4(b) of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 8Verify source

§ 9Powers and functionsAmendment

The Authority has power to regulate the energy industry and carry out listed licensing, tariff, compliance, standards, fee, dispute, complaint, and reform functions.

9. Powers and functions (1) The Authority shall have power to regulate the activities of the energy industry in accordance with this Act and the Energy Laws and, without limitation to the generality of the foregoing, shall carry out the following functions— (a) receive and process licence applications for energy undertakings; (b) grant, revoke or amend licences granted under this Act and Energy Laws ; (c) approve tariffs, and prices of energy sales and services; (d) monitor and enforce compliance by licensees with licences granted under this Act and Energy Laws ; (e) develop and enforce performance and safety standards for energy exploitation, production transportation and distribution; (f) prescribe and collect fees, charges, levies or rates under this Act and Energy Laws ; (g) arbitrate commercial disputes under this Act and Energy Laws ; (h) recommend reforms to this Act and Energy Laws as the Authority may deem desirable; (i) resolve or mediate consumer complaints against licensees; or [paragraph (i) amended by section 5 of Act 1 of 2025 ] (j) do all such things as are necessary or incidental or conducive to the better carrying out of the functions of the Authority provided for in this Act and Energy Laws . (2) In exercising its powers and functions under this Act and the Energy Laws , the Authority shall be independent of interference or direction of any other person or authority, and shall— (a) promote the interests of consumers of energy with respect to energy prices and charges and the continuity and quality of energy supply; (b) monitor the efficiency and performance of energy undertakings, having regard to the purposes for which they were established; (c) in conjunction with other relevant agencies, monitor the levels and structures of competition within the energy sector in order that competition in and accessibility to the energy sector in Malawi is promoted; (d) facilitate increasing access to energy supplies; (e) promote energy efficiency and energy savings; (f) promote consumer awareness and education; (g) promote the integrity and sustainability of energy undertakings and seek to ensure that energy undertakings, whilst providing efficient service, are able to finance the carrying on of the activities which they are licensed or authorized to carry on; (h) in conjunction with other relevant agencies, formulate measures to minimize the environmental impact of the exploitation, production, transportation, storage, supply and use of energy and enforce such measures by the inclusion of appropriate conditions to licences held by energy undertakings; (i) promote the exploitation of renewable energy resources; and (j) take all such measures as are necessary to fulfill the above purposes through regulations to be made under this Act or the Energy Laws . (3) The Authority shall, in undertaking its regulatory tasks, regulate in a manner that is transparent, cost effective and fair. (4) The Authority may advise the Government on matters affecting the energy sector generally and energy undertakings specifically.

Section 9Verify source

§ 10Consultations on the energy sector policySubstitution

Before issuing or revising an energy-sector policy, the Minister must consult licensees and other stakeholders.

10. Consultations on the energy sector policy (1) The Minister shall consult licensees and other stakeholders where he or she intends to issue or revise a policy with regard to the energy sector. (2) A policy issued under subsection (1) shall be in writing, and shall be published in the Gazette and in such other manner as the Minister may determine. [section 10 substituted by section 6 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 10Verify source

§ 11Remuneration of membersProvision

Members of the Authority are to be paid remuneration or allowances approved by the Minister of Finance on the Authority’s recommendation.

11. Remuneration of members (1) A member of the Authority shall be paid such remuneration or allowances as the Minister of Finance may approve on the recommendation of the Authority : Provided that such remuneration or allowances shall be set at levels that are comparable to those offered to similar professionals on the open market in Malawi. (2) Members shall be paid out of the funds of the Authority .

Section 11Verify source

§ 12Meetings of the AuthoritySubstitution

Rules for Authority meetings: the Chairperson sets timing and manner, the Authority must meet at least quarterly, and certain meeting, voting, quorum, and record-keeping rules apply.

12. Meetings of the Authority (1) The members of the Authority shall meet at such times and places and in the manner as the Chairperson may from time to time determine provided that the Authority shall meet at least once every quarter. (2) The Chairperson of the Authority may at any time convene an extraordinary meeting of the Authority to be held at a time and place and in the manner determined by him or her and shall, upon a written request of at least two other members of the Authority , convene an extraordinary meeting to be held within two weeks after the date of such request. (3) The Chairperson of the Authority or, in the absence of the Chairperson, the Vice-Chairperson of the Authority shall preside over any meeting of the Authority , and in the absence of both the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson, the members present shall elect one of their number to preside at the meeting. (4) The Authority may make rules to regulate the conduct of its proceedings and business. [subsection (4) substituted by section 7(a) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (5) The quorum for a meeting of the Authority shall be five. [subsection (5) , previously subsection (6) , amended by sections 7(b) and 7(c), and renumbered by section 7(f) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (6) A decision of the Authority at any meeting on any matter shall be that of the majority of the members present and voting, and the person presiding shall have, in the event of an equality of votes, a casting vote in addition to his or her deliberative vote. [subsection (6) , previously subsection (7) , substituted by section 7(d) and renumbered by section 7(f) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (7) No member of the Authority , except ex officio members, shall attend the meeting of the Authority by representation. [subsection (7) , previously subsection (8) , renumbered by section 7(f) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (8) Other officers of the Authority as the Chief Executive may designate, shall attend meetings of the Authority and of any committee of the Authority and may address such meetings, but shall not vote on any matter: Provided that the person presiding at any meeting may, for good cause, require such other officers to withdraw from such meeting. [subsection (8) , previously subsection (9) , renumbered by section 7(f) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (9) A decision of the Authority , or the performance of its functions and the exercise of its powers under this Act or the Energy Laws , shall not be invalid or be affected, only by reason of a vacancy in the membership of the Authority or of the fact that a person who is not entitled to sit as a member of the Authority sat at a meeting where the decision was made. [subsection (9) , previously subsection (10) , substituted by section 7(e) and renumbered by section 7(f) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (10) The Authority may, at its discretion, allow members of the public or licensees to attend any of its meetings. [subsection (10) , previously subsection (11) , renumbered by section 7(f) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (11) If the Authority takes a decision in any manner other than at a formal meeting, such decision shall come into effect immediately but shall be reduced to writing and submitted for ratification at the first formal meeting of the Authority following such decision. [subsection (11) , previously subsection (12) , renumbered by section 7(f) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (12) The Authority shall cause a record of its proceedings to be kept. [subsection (12) , previously subsection (13), renumbered by section 7(f) of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 12Verify source

§ 13Duties and responsibilities of membersSubstitution

Members of the Authority must act transparently, independently, and in the Authority’s interests, disclose conflicts of interest quickly, and stay out of related decisions after disclosure.

13. Duties and responsibilities of members (1) Any member of the Authority shall— (a) act in a justifiable and transparent manner whenever the exercise of his or her discretion is required; (b) at all times act in the interests of the Authority and not in his or her sectoral interest; (c) act independently of any outside influence or instruction; and (d) act in a manner that is required of any holder of a public office. (2) A member of the Authority having any interest, directly or indirectly, in any matter under discussion by the Authority shall as soon as possible after the relevant facts have come under his or her knowledge, disclose to the Authority the facts of his or her interest and nature thereof. (3) A disclosure under subsection (2) shall be recorded in the minutes of the Authority and, after the disclosure, the member — (a) shall not take part nor be present in any deliberation or decision of the Authority ; and (b) shall be disregarded for the purpose of constituting a quorum of the Authority . (4) A member of the Authority who contravenes subsection (2) commits an offence and shall, upon conviction, be liable to a fine of K5,000,000 and imprisonment for five years. [subsection (4) substituted by section 8 of Act 1 of 2025 ] (5) No act or proceedings of the Authority shall be invalidated on the grounds only that any member of the Authority has contravened the provisions of this section.

Section 13Verify source

§ 14Just administrative actionAmendment

The Authority must act within its powers, use a procedurally fair process, and be reasonable when its decisions affect another person’s rights. People adversely affected by such a decision must be given written reasons.

14. Just administrative action (1) Any decision of the Authority affecting the rights of another person shall— (a) be within the powers of the Authority as set out in this Act and Energy Laws ; (b) be taken within a procedurally fair process; and (c) be reasonable. (2) Any person adversely affected by a decision of the Authority shall be furnished with written reasons for the decision. [subsection (2) amended by section 9 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 14Verify source

§ 15Committees of the AuthoritySubstitution

The Authority may create and manage committees, appoint each committee’s chairperson, and override committee decisions. Committees must follow the Authority’s written directions, and the chairperson may call meetings.

15. Committees of the Authority (1) The Authority may, for the better exercise of its functions and powers, establish committees of the Authority to perform functions or exercise powers of the Authority under this Act or the Energy Laws . (2) The Authority may, at any time, dissolve or reconstitute the committees appointed under subsection (1) . (3) The Authority shall appoint a chairperson for each committee of the Authority from amongst the members appointed in accordance with section 4(1) . (4) Notwithstanding subsection (1) , the Authority may itself exercise the functions of a committee of the Authority , and may amend or rescind any decision of the committee. (5) The chairperson of a committee of the Authority may at any reasonable time and place convene a meeting of that committee. (6) A committee of the Authority shall act in accordance with any directions given to it in writing by the Authority . [section 15 substituted by section 10 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 15Verify source

§ 16Advisory Committees and customer - consumer foraSubstitution

The Authority may appoint non-members to advise it and may establish customer-consumer fora.

16. Advisory Committees and customer - consumer fora (1) The Authority may appoint persons, who are not members of the Authority , to advise the Authority in general or on a particular matter. [subsection (1) substituted by section 11 of Act 1 of 2025 ] (2) The Authority may establish customer - consumer fora consisting of as many of the members of the Authority , employees of the Authority and other persons as may be deemed necessary to represent the interests of consumers or consumers of energy in relation to consumer or consumer information, education, energy pricing and dispute resolution.

Section 16Verify source

§ 16ACo-opted personsRepeal

The Authority may invite a knowledgeable person to attend and address its meetings or committee meetings, but that person may not vote on Authority decisions.

16A. Co-opted persons The Authority may, at its discretion, invite any person with specific knowledge, information or expertise to attend any of its meetings or its committee meetings and address it on a matter, but such person shall not be eligible to vote at the meeting on any decision of the Authority . [section 16A inserted by section 12 of Act 1 of 2025 ] 17. *** [section 17 repealed by section 13 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 16AVerify source

§ 18Chief Executive of the AuthorityProvision

The Authority must appoint a Chief Executive.

18. Chief Executive of the Authority The Authority shall appoint a Chief Executive to be known by such title as the Authority may deem fit, who shall be the chief executive officer of the Authority and responsible for the administrative control of, and supervision over the work and staff of the Authority .

Section 18Verify source

§ 19Other staff of the AuthorityProvision

The Authority must establish its own Secretariat and may appoint staff, delegate staff appointment to the Chief Executive, and set pay and benefits for staff.

19. Other staff of the Authority (1) The Authority shall establish its own Secretariat and may appoint such staff, subordinate to the Chief Executive, as the Authority deems necessary. (2) The Authority may delegate to the Chief Executive the appointment of staff of such ranks as the Authority may specify. (3) The Authority may pay to persons in its employ, or provide them with, such remuneration, pension and employment benefits as the Authority may, after having obtained such professional advice as it may deem fit, consider as being competitive in the employment market in Malawi.

Section 19Verify source

§ 20Disclosure of interestRepeal

The Chief Executive must disclose conflicts of interest to the Authority and must not attend meetings while the related matter is being discussed. Employees, consultants, advisers, and sub-contractors to the Authority must disclose their interests to the Chief Executive.

20. Disclosure of interest (1) The Chief Executive shall disclose to the Authority any interest he or she has, whether in a private or professional capacity, in any matter that is under consideration by the Authority and shall not attend any meeting of the Authority or of any committee of the Authority while any question touching such matter is being discussed. (2) Every employee of the Authority or any consultant, adviser or sub-contractor to the Authority shall disclose to the Chief Executive any interest he or she has, whether in a private or professional capacity, in any matter that is under consideration by the Authority , and the Chief Executive shall take such decision as he or she considers appropriate in each case and submit a report thereon to the Authority . 21. *** [section 21 repealed by section 14 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 20Verify source

§ 22Delegation of powers and functionsSubstitution

The Authority may delegate its powers or functions to the Chairperson, a member, or an employee of the Authority.

22. Delegation of powers and functions The Authority may delegate any of its powers or functions under this Act or the Energy Laws , to— (a) the Chairperson; (b) a member of the Authority ; or (c) an employee of the Authority , to facilitate the operations of the Authority . [section 22 substituted by section 15 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 22Verify source

Part III

Financial provisions

§ 23Funds of the AuthorityAmendment

The Authority’s funds come from fees, levies, fines, government or other revenue, parliamentary appropriations, administrative penalties, and other authorized income.

23. Funds of the Authority The funds of the Authority shall consist of— (a) all fees, charges, energy regulation levies, dues or rates imposed under this Act and Energy Laws ; (b) one-half of all fines imposed by a competent court for the contravention of the provisions of this Act and Energy Laws or by-laws made by the Authority ; (c) revenue accruing to the Authority from the Government or other body or person, whether as a grant-in-aid or otherwise; (d) all such monies as are, from time to time, appropriated to the Authority by Parliament; [paragraph (d) amended by section 16(a) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (e) monetary administrative penalties imposed by the Authority under this Act and the Energy Laws ; and [paragraph (e) inserted by section 16(b) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (f) any other income authorized under this Act and Energy Laws or income recognized as such by accounting standards and practices. [paragraph (f) , previously paragraph (e) , renumbered by section 16(c) of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 23Verify source

§ 24Energy regulation levySubstitution

The Authority may impose an energy regulation levy on energy sales, and licensees must pay it within 30 days of sale or billing, whichever comes first.

24. Energy regulation levy (1) For the purposes of the levies referred to in section 23 , the Authority may by notice in the Gazette impose an energy regulation levy on energy sales to be paid by licensees. (2) A notice under subsection (1) shall state the amount of the levies, or the basis or method of calculation or determination of the amounts. [subsection (2) substituted by section 17(a) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (3) A licensee shall pay to the Authority the levy referred to in subsection (1) within thirty days from the date of sale or billing for the energy as the case may be, whichever shall occur first. [subsection (3) added by section 17(b) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (4) Where a licensee fails to pay the levy referred to in subsection (1) within the period specified in subsection (3) , interest on the levy at the rate of 3 per cent above the commercial bank lending rate shall be chargeable and payable to the Authority . [subsection (4) added by section 17(b) of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 24Verify source

§ 25Rural electrification levySubstitution

Licensees must pay a rural electrification levy to the Authority, and the Authority must pass it to the Rural Electrification Fund.

25. Rural electrification levy (1) In order to promote and fund rural electrification , every licensee shall pay to the Authority a rural electrification levy which levy shall be part of the tariffs or prices of energy payable by energy customers. (2) Every licensee shall pay the levy referred to in subsection (1) to the Authority within thirty days from the date of sale or billing for the energy as the case may be, whichever shall occur first. [subsection (2) , previously subsection (3) , amended by section 18(a) and (b), and renumbered by section 18(e) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (3) The Authority shall pay the levy referred to in subsection (1) to the Rural Electrification Fund within seven days of receipt of the same from a licensee . [subsection (3) , previously subsection (4) , renumbered by section 18(e) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (4) If a licensee fails to remit the levy referred to in subsection (1) , or if the Authority fails to remit the levy in accordance with subsection (4) , within the periods specified under subsections (3) and (4) , interest on the levy at the rate of 3 per cent above the commercial bank lending rate shall be chargeable and payable to the Rural Electrification Fund . [subsection (4) , previously subsection (5) , substituted by section 18 (c) and renumbered by section 18(e) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (5) The rural electrification levy shall be used for the purposes prescribed under the Rural Electrification Act . [Cap. 73:03] [subsection (5) , previously subsection (6) , renumbered by section 18(e) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (6) Where a licensee fails to pay any levy prescribed in the Energy Laws , within thirty days, an interest on the levy at the rate of 3 per cent above the commercial bank lending rate shall be chargeable. [subsection (6) , previously subsection (7), added by section 18(d) and renumbered by section 18(e) of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 25Verify source

§ 26Books of accountsSubstitution

The Authority must keep proper accounting records, prepare annual financial statements after each financial year, and have its accounts audited and examined before presentation to Parliament.

26. Books of accounts (1) The Authority shall cause to be kept proper books of accounts and other records relating to its accounts. (2) The Authority shall, as soon as possible after the end of each financial year, cause to be prepared a statement of the cash-flow and income and expenditure of the Authority for that financial year and a balance sheet of its assets and liabilities as at the end of that financial year. (3) The accounts of the Authority shall— (a) be audited annually by independent public auditors appointed by the Authority ; and (b) be examined by the Auditor General before being presented to Parliament in accordance with this Act. (4) The financial year of the Authority shall be the same as the financial year of the Government. [subsection (4) substituted by section 19 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 26Verify source

§ 27Annual reportSubstitution

The Authority must submit an annual report to Parliament through the Minister within six months after the financial year ends.

27. Annual report (1) The Authority shall as soon as practicable, but not later than six months after the expiry of the financial year, submit to Parliament, through the Minister, a report concerning its activities during that financial year. (2) The annual report referred to in subsection (1) shall include— (a) an audited balance sheet and income statement, including any notes thereon and documents annexed thereto whereby relevant information is provided; (b) the report of the examination of the accounts referred to in section 26 (3) ; (c) information regarding licences granted, renewed, amended, suspended, cancelled or withdrawn; (d) information regarding the amount of levies collected and paid to various beneficiaries; [paragraph (d) substituted by section 20 of Act 1 of 2025 ] (e) a report regarding the execution of the business plan of the Authority ; (f) a report of the future strategic plans of the Authority ; (g) a status report on the performance of the energy sector and energy undertakings; and (h) such other information as the Authority may, from time to time, deem necessary. (3) The Authority shall, after submission of the annual report to Parliament in accordance with subsection (1) , cause a summary of the report to be published in such manner as the Authority shall deem appropriate or as Parliament may direct.

Section 27Verify source

Part IV

Regulation of the energy sector

§ 28Activities to be carried out under licenceSubstitution

You cannot establish, operate, or take part in an energy undertaking in Malawi without a licence from the Authority.

28. Activities to be carried out under licence (1) No person may establish, operate, carry on or be involved in any manner in an energy undertaking in Malawi, without a licence issued by the Authority . (2) A person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence. [subsection (2) substituted by section 21 of Act 1 of 2025 ] (3) For the purposes of this section the Authority has the power— (a) to determine whether any person is carrying on or involved in any energy undertaking ; and (b) to order any person not holding a licence and who is obliged to apply for and hold a licence under this Act or Energy Laws to cease carrying on or being involved in any energy undertaking .

Section 28Verify source

§ 29Application for and issuing of licenceProvision

A person who must hold a licence under this Act or the Energy Laws must apply to the Authority for the licence in the prescribed form and pay the fees set out in the Act or Energy Laws.

29. Application for and issuing of licence Any person obliged to hold a licence under this Act or Energy Laws shall apply to the Authority for a licence in the prescribed form in accordance with the procedure and subject to payment of fees laid down in this Act or Energy Laws .

Section 29Verify source

§ 30Tariffs or prices of energyProvision

A licensee must not charge a customer more than the tariffs, prices, or charges allowed by the licence or its revision and approved by the Authority.

30. Tariffs or prices of energy A licensee shall not charge a customer any other tariff, price or charge more than that forming part of the conditions of his or her licence or revision thereof and as approved by the Authority .

Section 30Verify source

§ 31Transfer of licencesSubstitution

A licence, and related rights or interests in it, cannot be transferred without the Authority’s prior written consent.

31. Transfer of licences (1) A licence , or rights or privileges thereunder, shall not be assigned or transferred, either in whole or in part, and the title thereto, either legal or equitable, or any right, interest or property therein, shall not pass to or vest in any person, without the prior written consent of the Authority . (2) The Authority shall not, without a reasonable justification, withhold the consent referred to in subsection (1) . [section 31 substituted by section 22 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 31Verify source

Part V

Resolution of disputes

§ 32Authority may arbitrateAmendment

If a party to a dispute asks, the Authority must arbitrate certain disputes involving licensees, customers, or consumers about energy supply and related charges or services.

32. Authority may arbitrate The Authority shall, if requested thereto by a party to a dispute, act as arbitrator in disputes between licensees or between a licensee and its customers or consumers relating to— (a) the right to energy supply; (b) the duty to supply energy ; (c) the tariffs, process or charges at which energy is supplied; (d) delays in or refusal to supply energy ; [paragraph (d) amended by section 23(a) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (e) the quality of energy supply and the provision of services in connexion therewith; and [paragraph (e) amended by section 23(b) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (f) a commercial dispute on any provision of this Act or the Energy Laws . [paragraph (f) added by section 23(c) of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 32Verify source

§ 33Authority may act as mediatorProvision

The Authority may act as mediator if a licensee, customer, or consumer asks it to do so.

33. Authority may act as mediator The Authority may act as mediator in any other matter in respect of which a licensee , customer , or consumer requests the Authority to act as such.

Section 33Verify source

§ 34Authority may appoint another arbitratorProvision

The Authority may appoint another arbitrator or mediator on behalf of the Authority if the parties approve.

34. Authority may appoint another arbitrator The Authority may, on approval of the parties involved, appoint a suitable person to act as mediator or arbitrator on its behalf and any action or decision of a person so appointed is deemed to be an action or decision of the Authority .

Section 34Verify source

§ 35Procedure and fees for mediation and arbitrationSubstitution

The Authority must make procedure rules for arbitration and mediation disputes and publish fees in the Gazette.

35. Procedure and fees for mediation and arbitration The Authority shall make rules of procedure for arbitration and mediation of disputes and shall, by notice published in the Gazette , prescribe fees to be paid for arbitration and mediation of disputes. [section 35 substituted by section 24 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 35Verify source

§ 36Decision of the Authority in arbitrating a disputeSubstitution

The Authority’s dispute-arbitration decision, including costs, is final and binding on the disputing parties, subject to the Arbitration Act.

36. Decision of the Authority in arbitrating a dispute Subject to the Arbitration Act , the decision of the Authority in arbitrating a dispute, including a decision as to costs, shall be final and binding on the disputing parties. [section 36 substituted by section 25 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 36Verify source

Part VI

Inspections, accidents, inquiries and investigations

§ 37Inquiries and formal investigationsSubstitution

The Authority may investigate complaints or enquiries about energy supply, and must investigate complaints about unlawful conduct by a licensee.

37. Inquiries and formal investigations (1) The Authority may, at its own instance or on receipt of a complaint or enquiry relating to the supply of energy , appoint a person to make enquiries in respect thereof and report thereon to the Authority . (2) On receipt of a report under subsection (1) , the Authority may— (a) issue such licensing conditions, guidelines, rules or directives as it is empowered under this Act; or (b) institute a formal investigation. (3) The Authority shall, on receipt of a complaint regarding unlawful conduct by a licensee , institute a formal investigation in respect of that complaint. (4) Upon instituting a formal investigation under subsection (2) or (3) — (a) the Authority may appoint a person to chair the investigation and as many persons as may be necessary to assist with the investigation; and (b) the person appointed under subparagraph (a) and the persons assisting him or her may summon witnesses and conduct the investigation in accordance with the rules made by the Authority by order published in the Gazette . (5) On completion of an investigation under subsection (4) , the person chairing the investigation shall submit his or her written report thereon to the Authority . (6) On receipt of the report under subsection (5) , the Authority may— (a) refer the report to the Attorney General for his or her advice; and (b) if a licensee is involved, take action in accordance with this Act or the Energy Laws . [subsection (6) substituted by section 26(a) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (7) The Authority shall give a copy of the report received under subsection (5) to a concerned consumer or affected person. [subsection (7) added by section 26(b) of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 37Verify source

§ 38Licensee to report accidentsSubstitution

A licensee must report serious or potentially serious accidents to the Authority within seven days, and the Authority must investigate within 21 days after receiving the report.

38. Licensee to report accidents (1) A licensee shall send to the Authority a report of— (a) any accident that has caused loss of life or serious personal injury, or is likely to have caused loss of life or serious personal injury, which occurs in any part of the licensee ’s works or equipment; and (b) any loss of life or serious personal injury occasioned by the accident, as soon as possible, but not later than seven days of the accident. (2) A person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence. (3) On receipt of the report under subsection (1) , the Authority shall, within twenty-one days, investigate the matter. (4) Nothing contained in this section shall absolve a licensee from the duty of complying with the provisions of any other written law relating to reporting of accidents. [section 38 substituted by section 27 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 38Verify source

§ 39Entry and inspection of premisesSubstitution

The Authority may enter and inspect a licensee’s premises, require returns, and ask for their accuracy to be verified on oath. A person authorized in writing must show that authorization on request by a licensee.

39. Entry and inspection of premises (1) The Authority , or any person authorized thereto in writing by the Authority may— (a) at any time enter upon the premises of a licensee and inspect any plant, machinery, books of accounts and other documents found thereat for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not the provisions of this Act, the Energy Laws or other written law or the conditions of any licence are being complied with, or for the purpose of any inspection which is incidental to or connected with the carrying out of the duties of the licensee ; and (b) call upon any licensee to furnish to the Authority such periodical or other returns in such form and such particulars as the Authority may, from time to time, prescribe by notice in the Gazette . (2) The Authority may require that the accuracy of the returns and particulars be verified on oath by the licensee . (3) A person authorized by the Authority to carry out an inspection or call for a return shall on request by a licensee show his or her authorization. (4) A person who alters, destroys or otherwise suppresses a document or information required of him or her under subsection (1) commits an offence. [subsection (4) substituted by section 28 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 39Verify source

Part VII

Offences and penalties

§ 40OffencesSubstitution

This section makes several energy-related acts offences, including breaching the Act or Authority orders, illegal energy abstraction, tampering with meters or equipment, blocking inspections, damaging installations, and a licensee wrongly refusing another licensee access to its system.

40. Offences (1) Any person who carries on in any manner any activity for the supply of energy in contravention of this Act, or fails to carry out or to comply with any order or decision of the Authority made or given under this Act or otherwise contravenes the provisions of this Act, or Energy Laws commits an offence. [subsection (1) amended by section 29(a) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (2) Without prejudice to the right of a licensee to recover for any illegal consumption of energy , including costs associated with such recovery, a customer or any other person who— (a) illegally abstracts energy ; (b) disturbs or tampers with any meter or other energy measuring instrument or apparatus; (c) denies access to premises for inspections by authorized personnel of the licensee or the Authority ; (d) damages or vandalizes any energy installation equipment or apparatus, commits an offence. [subsection (2) amended by section 29(b) of Act 1 of 2025 ] (3) A licensee who, without reasonable justification, denies another licensee access to his or her system commits an offence. [subsection (3) substituted by section 29(c) of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 40Verify source

§ 41PenaltiesSubstitution

If a person commits an offence under the Act and no specific penalty is provided, conviction brings a K50,000,000 fine and 10 years’ imprisonment.

41. Penalties (1) A person who commits an offence under this Act for which no penalty has been provided in this Act shall, upon conviction, be liable to a fine of K50,000,000 and imprisonment for ten years. (2) In addition to the penalty provided under subsection (1) , a court may order the forfeiture to the State of any commodity or equipment used in the commission of the offence. (3) The Authority shall determine the disposal method of the commodity or equipment forfeited under subsection (2) . [section 41 substituted by section 30 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 41Verify source

§ 41AAdministrative penaltiesAmendment

The Authority may impose monetary administrative penalties on a licensee or consumer who breaches licence conditions, and must prescribe a schedule of non-compliance and corresponding penalties.

41A. Administrative penalties (1) The Authority may impose a monetary administrative penalty against a licensee or consumer who fails to comply with the conditions of his or her licence under this Act or the Energy Laws . (2) The Authority shall, pursuant to subsection (1) , prescribe a schedule of acts of non-compliance and the corresponding monetary penalties payable. (3) The Authority may, from time to time, amend the schedule referred to under subsection (2) . [section 41A inserted by section 31 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 41AVerify source

Part VIII

Miscellaneous provisions

§ 42Service of noticeProvision

Notices or other documents required or authorized under the Act may be served in several specified ways.

42. Service of notice Any notice or other document required or authorized to be given, delivered or served under this Act may be given, delivered or served— (a) by delivering it to the person to whom it is to be given or delivered or on whom it is to be served; (b) by leaving it at the usual or last known place of abode of that person; (c) by sending it in a prepaid registered letter addressed to that person at his or her usual or last known place of abode or postal address; (d) in the ease of a company, by delivering it to the secretary or clerk thereof at its registered or numbered office or by sending it in a prepaid registered letter addressed to the secretary or clerk of the company at that office; or (e) if it is not practicable after reasonable enquiry to ascertain the name or address of a person to whom it should be given or delivered or on whom it should be served, as being a person having an interest in land, being the person to whom the description of the person having that interest in the premises (naming those premises) to which it relates, or by delivering it to some person on the premises or, if there is no person on the premises to whom it can be addressed, by affixing a true copy of it to some conspicuous part of the premises.

Section 42Verify source

§ 43Judicial reviewSubstitution

A person aggrieved by a decision or action of the Authority may seek judicial review in the High Court within 30 days.

43. Judicial review A person who is aggrieved by a decision or action of the Authority under this Act or any of the Energy Laws may apply for judicial review to the High Court within a period of thirty days from the date of the decision or action of the Authority . [section 43 substituted by section 32 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 43Verify source

§ 44Obligation of secrecySubstitution

Certain Authority members, staff, and meeting attendees must not disclose non-public information learned in their duties, unless one of the stated exceptions applies.

44. Obligation of secrecy A member of the Authority or a committee of the Authority , or any officer, servant or agent of the Authority , or a person attending any meeting of the Authority or of a committee of the Authority , whether during his or her tenure of office or during his or her employment or thereafter, shall not disclose any information which has been obtained by him during his or her duties, and which has not been published under this Act or any Energy Law, unless the disclosure is— (a) for purposes of this Act or any Energy Law; (b) for purposes of any civil or criminal proceedings under any written law; or (c) otherwise authorized by the Authority . [section 44 substituted by section 33 of Act 1 of 2025 ]

Section 44Verify source

§ 45By-lawsProvision

The Authority may make by-laws to give effect to the Act and to regulate energy supply, fuels, stockholdings, public safety, fees, prohibited goods, meter testing, and related matters.

45. By-laws The Authority may make by-laws to give effect to any of the provisions of this Act and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, the Authority may make by-laws— (a) for securing that the supply and use of energy is regular, safe and efficient; (b) prioritizing of fuels and technologies for energy supply; (c) for bulk stockholdings; (d) for protecting the public in so far as practicable from any personal injury, fire or other dangers arising from the use of energy ; (e) prescribing anything, including fees, required to be prescribed under this Act prohibiting, controlling or restricting the importation, disposal, sale of defective or dangerous goods or fittings used in the supply of energy ; (f) for the testing of meters and the adjustment of accounts where meters are found to be defective; and (g) providing for matters incidental to and connected with the matters mentioned in the preceding paragraphs of this section.

Section 45Verify source

Legislative relationships

7 referenced instruments

Names are derived from the stored provision headings and citation-enrichment layer. Treat this as a research index and verify each relationship against the source text.

A–F

7 instruments

Authority as set out in this Act
Section 14
Authority in arbitrating a dispute Subject to the Arbitration Act
Section 36
Authority made or given under this Act
Section 40
Authority provided for in this Act
Section 9
Authority There is hereby established an Authority known as the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (in this Act
Section 3
Authority to perform functions or exercise powers of the Authority under this Act
Section 15
Authority under this Act
Section 43

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14 Jan 2025 · currentEnglish

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