The first online seminar has been held between the Azerbaijan Energy Regulatory Agency (AERA) and the Georgian National Energy and Water Supply Regulatory Commission (GNERC).
In his opening remarks, Agha Hajizade, Head of AERA’s International Relations Division, emphasized the importance of the seminar in raising awareness and facilitating the exchange of experience in the relevant field.
During the seminar, Elmar Gulaliyev, Head of AERA’s Liberalization in Energy Sector Division, delivered a presentation titled “Overview of the Electricity Sector in Azerbaijan.” He provided information on Azerbaijan’s existing power generation capacity, the current structure of the electricity market, the potential of renewable energy sources, the implementation of market elements, and the Energy Efficiency Fund.
Ana Zaridze, Director of GNERC’s Commercial Service Quality Control Department, delivered a presentation titled “GNERC’s Regulatory Mechanisms: Monitoring Service Quality and Assessing Consumer Satisfaction.” She outlined key concepts related to service quality, continuity of supply, and technical and commercial quality. She also introduced Georgia’s Service Quality Monitoring System, the legal framework for service quality monitoring, and the “Know Your Rights” consumer awareness campaign.
Ina Osikmashvili, Chief Specialist at GNERC’s Electricity Department, in her presentation provided an overview of the processes for evaluating and approving electricity network development plans, the 10-year development plan for Georgia’s electricity network, and GNERC’s evaluation of energy investment projects. Beka Shonia, Chief Specialist at GNERC’s Market Monitoring and Internal Audit Department, spoke about the Black Sea Submarine Cable (BSSC) project, including key details and the feasibility study, as well as the expansion of generation capacity in Georgia.
The seminar concluded with a Q&A session, during which participants discussed issues of interest and exchanged views.
It should be noted that on February 21, 2024, AERA and GNERC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), under which the parties agreed to exchange experience in energy regulation, share information on the development of related legislation, and organize training programs on various topics, including renewable energy regulation and energy efficiency.
