loading . . . Regional Energy Regulators Association welcomes new chairperson Staff Reporter
THE Regional Energy Regulators Association of Southern Africa (RERA) has appointed a newly elected Chairperson, Dr. Paulo António da Graça, Executive Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Regulatory Authority (ARENE) of Mozambique, a leader of exceptional calibre.
RERA was established by the Ministers responsible for Energy in the Southern African Development Community at a meeting held in Lesotho on 12 July 2002 and was officially launched on 26 September 2002 in Windhoek, Namibia. This milestone reflected a collective regional recognition that deeper cooperation among energy regulators was essential to support the growing interconnection of power systems, regional electricity trade, and harmonisation of regulatory frameworks.
The RERA Secretariat, hosted in Windhoek, Namibia, became fully functional in October 2005, marking the operationalisation of the Association and enabling the systematic implementation of its programmes and activities. Since then, RERA has continued to evolve in response to regional priorities and the changing energy landscape.
Francois Robinson, the Executive Director of RERA, said that the association has strengthened Southern Africaâs regional cooperation by sharing best practices on integrating renewable energy, modernising the grid, and protecting consumers during volatile market shifts.
âWe have built bridges between our diverse regulatory frameworks, proving that while our local contexts may differ, our commitment to fairness, transparency, and innovation is a common thread that binds us. However, the energy landscape does not stand still, and neither can we. The challenges we faceâcybersecurity threats, the just transition to net-zero emissions, and ensuring energy affordabilityâare becoming more complex every day. This is why the strength of RERA lies in its ability to renew itself with fresh perspectives and renewed energy,â Robinson said.
He added that the newly elected Chairperson of RERA, Dr. António da Graça, Executive Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Regulatory Authority (ARENE) of Mozambique, is a leader of exceptional calibre.
âHe brings a depth of experience in energy regulation that is precisely what we need to navigate the next chapter. The Chairperson possesses a sharp intellect, a collaborative spirit, and, most importantly, the integrity that this position demands. Dr. Paulo AntĂłnio da Graça, I have watched you engage in our meetings with thoughtful questions and a genuine desire to find common ground. You understand that regulation is not just about rules and compliance; it is about shaping a future where energy serves as an engine for opportunity. I cannot forget to thank the ECB and the Government and people of Namibia, who since the establishment of RERA have continued to graciously host RERA. During the most challenging times of RERAâs transition, the ECB stood out and selflessly supported RERA through the provision of wise leadership, immense resources, and administrative support. My sincere gratitude, and I hope the ECB will continue with this hospitality and spirit of SADC,â Robinson concluded.
Picture for illustrative purposes only. Photo: RERA
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