The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) approved the establishment of a section 5 advisory forum, at its last meeting, of the 29 April 2025.
The Electricity Market Advisory Forum (EMAF), is expected to advise the Energy Regulator on various matters related to the establishment of a competitive electricity market.
NERSA said in a statement on Friday, members will be appointed by and accountable to, the Energy Regulator with an approved terms of reference.
The decision to appoint such a forum, comes at a time when changes are anticipated in the electricity sector, including the establishment of a competitive electricity market, over the next five years.
The Forum is also expected to include licensing the Market Operator as the National Transmission Company of South Africa’s (NTCSA) licensed activity and approving the Market Rule and Market Code.
They will also conduct market surveillance and enforcement, according to the draft South African Wholesale Electricity Market (SAWEM) Code.
The advisory forum will initially focus on advising the Energy Regulator on the finalisation of the Market Rule and Market Code.
NERSA said it is currently outlining the process of appointing members to the EMAF in due course, with the Market Rule Project Team finalising the terms of reference for the EMAF, including the scope and mandate of the EMAF, membership selection criteria.