The conference theme was: "Electricity Regulation and Investment in the SADC region". The RERA decided on the theme upon realization that like in other regions of the world, SADC countries, including Lesotho require investment in electricity for increased generation capacity and increasing access to electricity. Lack of adequate electricity supplies has hampered developmental efforts aimed at improving the lives of SADC citizens.

Opening the Conference the Acting Minister of Natural Resources Mrs. Mpeo Mahase-Moiloa MP, observed that the task that RERA was established to accomplish was a great one. This was more so because increasing access to electricity required major investments in distribution infrastructure, especially when the supply was expanded into rural areas.

Mrs. Mahase-Moiloa also pointed out that independent regulation (RE) was very important because it, among others, assured investors of legal security for their investments and that they would be allowed reasonable returns on them.

The Minister also appealed to delegates to explore ways of using renewable energy sources which would have less negative impact on the environment. Regulators, she added, could support RE programs by having dedicated regulatory instruments such as simpler licensing requirements and lighter quality of supply and service standards.Download Minister's full speech(PDF)

The AGM considered issues on regional energy development such as renewable energy efficiency activities in the region, overview of the energy situation in the SADC region. It also focused on the regional electricity markets and security of supply and energy project finance and regulatory environment.

The AGM also approved the RERA business Plan and Budget for 2007, the Annual Report and Financial statements for 2005 and the RERA Strategic Plan. The new regulatory bodies of Tanzania and Angola were admitted to RERA.

The Conference was attended by local and international participants who included bankers, investors and the SADC region electricity industry stakeholders. The LEA and RERA were co-hosts, while ABSA Bank and BHP Billiton (major electricity consumer) sponsored the event.