The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has approved an application from the Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality to operate an electricity distribution network and carry out electricity trading in selected parts of the municipality. The approval was finalized during an Energy Regulator meeting held on June 30, 2026, marking an important step toward expanding electricity access in the region.
As part of the decision, NERSA has granted the municipality two separate licences for electricity distribution and electricity trading. These licences will cover the areas of Jackinland, Lebowakgomo Unit R, and Motantanyane. According to NERSA, these locations have been identified as Greenfield sites, meaning they are new development areas planned for electrification under the regulator’s Rules for Distribution Licensable Areas of Supply.
The municipality submitted its application to NERSA on January 15, 2026, in accordance with the Electricity Regulation Act, 2006 (Act No. 4 of 2006), as amended. The Act sets out the legal requirements for entities seeking to operate electricity distribution facilities and participate in electricity trading.
Before approving the application, NERSA conducted a public participation process as required under South African law. The review was carried out in line with the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act, 2000, and the National Energy Regulator Act, 2004. During this process, the regulator considered public comments and evaluated the municipality’s submission to ensure it met all technical, legal, and regulatory requirements.
Following its assessment, NERSA concluded that the Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality had fulfilled all conditions necessary to receive both licences. The approval provides the municipality with the legal authority to move forward with its planned electrification programme in the designated Greenfield areas.
The decision is expected to support infrastructure development and improve electricity access for communities in the approved locations. It also establishes a formal regulatory framework for the municipality to manage electricity distribution and trading activities in the future.
NERSA stated that the full decision, along with the reasons for the approval, will be published on its official website. Stakeholders seeking additional information have been advised to contact NERSA’s Head of Communications, Mr. Charles Hlebela.
Discover more from SolarQuarter
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
