The IRC says it is continuing to follow the provisions of the Electricity Supply Act as the review of DOMLEC’s revised electricity tariffs enters a critical stage.
According to Executive Director Justinn Kase, the Commission has completed its consultations, outreach activities, and review of public feedback, and has now moved into the final stages of the tariff approval process. However, questions have recently emerged regarding governance arrangements at the Commission and the authority to approve the revised rates in the absence of a Board of Commissioners.
Kase explained that the IRC sought legal advice on the matter after concerns were raised regarding whether decisions relating to the revised tariffs could proceed without a board in place. He noted that the legal opinion received indicates that, under the current circumstances, the Executive Director has the authority to act on behalf of the Commission to ensure its functions continue uninterrupted.
“The IRC is a creature of the Act,” Kase explained, noting that the Commission’s responsibilities and powers are derived directly from the Electricity Supply Act No. 10 of 2006.
The Executive Director said the Commission granted DOMLEC conditional approval in March 2026 while anticipating the commercial operation of the geothermal plant. The conditional approval also triggered statutory timelines within which the Commission is required to act. During this period, the IRC conducted extensive public consultations and stakeholder engagement activities regarding the proposed revised rates.
Kase stated that the consultations generated broad consensus on the issues presented to the public, particularly as the revised rates are expected to reduce electricity bills for customers.
The Commission has also drawn attention to Section 24(7) of the Electricity Supply Act, which addresses situations where the prescribed timelines are exceeded. According to Kase, if the Commission does not make a determination within the timeframe established by law, the revised rates are deemed approved until a formal determination is made.
The IRC says it has taken the necessary legal and administrative steps to address the matter and will continue keeping the public informed as the process moves forward.
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