BERA, business community engage in electricity tariff review
staff writer | Friday August 7, 2026 12:01
According to BERa, the engagement provided a platform for open dialogue between the regulator and the business community on electricity tariffs, billing methodologies and the practical realities experienced by companies following the implementation of the revised tariff framework. Speaking during the engagement, Business Botswana emphasised that electricity remains one of the most critical inputs into doing business, influencing production costs, competitiveness, investment decisions and the ability of enterprises to grow, create employment and contribute to economic transformation.
Business Botswana noted that changes to electricity tariffs and billing methodologies are therefore matters of significant interest to the private sector.
The organisation welcomed BERA’s willingness to engage with businesses, describing the dialogue as an important step in strengthening understanding, sharing experiences and supporting implementation through constructive collaboration.
The discussions followed feedback received from members seeking clarity on the transition from billing maximum demand in kilowatts (kW) to kilovolt-amperes (kVA), as well as the revised demand assessment methodology.
Business Botswana said the concerns raised by members, particularly those in manufacturing and other energy-intensive sectors, underlined the need for continued engagement on how policy changes are applied in practice.
During the engagement, the business community indicated that many of the comments and concerns submitted centred on the need to postpone implementation of the revised methodology to allow for further consultation, clearer communication and adequate preparation by affected businesses.
Members also emphasised that future engagements of this nature should take place before major tariff-related decisions are finalised, so that private sector input can meaningfully inform the decision-making process.
BERA used the platform to provide a structured overview of the tariff review process, including the legal framework guiding its decisions, the principles of fair and transparent regulation, and the steps followed before a final determination is made.
The Authority explained that tariff regulation seeks to balance the affordability concerns of customers and businesses with the need to ensure a financially sustainable electricity sector capable of maintaining infrastructure and supporting reliable supply.
The Authority also highlighted the importance of stakeholder participation in tariff reviews, noting that consultation allows affected parties to make representations and contribute to the regulatory decision-making process. This, BERA said, strengthens transparency, accountability and public confidence in tariff determinations.
Members of the business community were encouraged to participate openly and constructively by sharing their experiences, observations and practical perspectives. Business Botswana said such input would continue to inform its engagement with BERA and ensure that future discussions are grounded in evidence from the private sector.
Both Business Botswana and BERA reaffirmed the value of sustained engagement, mutual understanding and the open exchange of ideas in creating a regulatory environment that supports business confidence, investment, energy sector sustainability and economic growth.