Natia Turnava: Energy reform is targeted at increasing the competition and protection of customers’ rights
21-12-2020

“In order to exploit Georgia’s energy potential and strengthen energy security, a large-scale energy sector reform launched in 2017, when Georgia joined the European Energy Union, will be continued. To strengthen the free market relations in the sector, energy transmission and distribution activities will be separated from energy generation, trade and supply activities,” – Natia Turnava, as a candidate for the position of the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development stated at a joint parliamentary committee hearing.

According to the Acting Minister, the Georgian Energy Exchange will be launched at full capacity, which will ensure the introduction of competitive and open market principles in the energy market. He said that from 2021 to 2026, large consumers will be gradually marketed according to the size and voltage of their consumption. “This process started last year and will be further continue. At the same time, the respective regulated stations will be gradually deregulated according to their capacities. It will contribute to enhancing energy efficiency. The introduction of the energy efficiency and standards will be based on the legal framework adopted in 2020, and taking into account the existing international best practices,” – Natia Turnava said.

According to the ministerial candidate, the main task of the energy reform is strengthening of the competition and protection of the consumer rights in terms of safe, uninterrupted delivery.

“We are constantly taking care that the negative factors do not have a negative impact on the population and especially on its vulnerable groups. As part of the anti-crisis plan, the Government is subsidizing utility bills and in this regard, we plan to launch social protection mechanisms as well,” – Natia Turnava said.


Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia. © 2021