THE Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office (EIDPMO) has announced the introduction of the new Electricity Order 2017, which will repeal the existing Electricity Act (Chapter 71).
The Electricity Order 2017, which will come into effect July 1, 2018, is aimed at strengthening the law and safety aspects relating to the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity in Brunei Darussalam.
These objectives would be achieved through changes and additions to the order, including the introduction of a licensing scheme for the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity; certification requirement for electrical workers; as well as regulations on installation and modification of electrical works.
The Electricity Order 2017 demonstrates the continuous efforts of the Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, to provide an increasingly conducive business environment in the Sultanate.
According to the World Bank survey 2016, the Getting Electricity indicator for Brunei Darussalam had improved by 55 steps, moving from 76th place to 21st place.
The new order will help improve Brunei Darussalam’s standing in the index through better monitoring of the reliability and quality of electricity supply in the country.
The Electricity Order 2017 will be enforced through a newly established authority, named Autoriti Elektrik Brunei Darussalam, which would be placed under the EIDPMO.
The authority would provide a regulatory framework that enables the development of a more efficient, competitive and increasingly sustainable power industry.
For queries or information, contact Hajah Maria Elena binti Pehin Dato Paduka DP Haji Abdul Rahman, Head of Power and Generation Unit at the EIDPMO at maria.abdrahman@energy.gov.bn
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