APPROVED TARIFF BY SIERRA LEONE ELECTRICITY AND WATER REGULATORY COMMISSION FOR ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION AND SUPPLY AUTHORITY (EDSA) EFFECTIVE 1st. October 2023
This tariff structure was resolved at the board meeting on 26th September 2023 in the fulfillment of the Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission Act 2011, Section 45(1) VIEW DOCUMENT
SLEWRC Engages Bottled Water Companies on Compliance and Regulatory Framework
In an effort to improve the regulation and quality of bottled water companies in the country, the Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (EWRC) has engaged key stakeholders of the bottled water industry on compliance and the Commission’s regulatory framework. The meeting, which took place on the 7th of August 2024 in the Commission’s headquarters at Berwick Street, focused on several key areas relating to the water sector industry, ranging from the importance of market regulation to ensure quality and sustainability to growing concerns about water quality standards and best practices. Dr. Mannah, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (EWRC) noted that there has been a significant growth in the bottled water sector, hence the need to regulate water quality and quantity. The Director General spoke about the importance of competition, market entry, and the stringent licensing processes. He also talked about compliance measures and the expectation from businesses to uphold the Commission’s regulatory standards in order to avoid penalties. He further dilated on the importance of labeling and batching to combat issues such as expiration dates, water quality, shelf life, and fake products. On his part, the Deputy Director General, Sama I. Sandy, remarked that the Commission has been monitoring the growth of the bottled water market, and is therefore eager to see these businesses expand beyond Sierra Leone. He explained the Government’s role in ensuring products standards and best practices. Mr. Sandy pointed out that the Commission’s engagement with industry stakeholders is geared towards understanding the challenges they face and providing the necessary support. He admonished the water companies to expedite the licensing process before the end of the month, and explained the importance of implementing strict labeling and batching requirements for water products starting next year in order to ensure compliance including EWRC’s registration number, production date, and expiration date. Mrs. Desireemarg B. Augustine, the head of Legal and Compliance informed water producers that established companies are familiar with the licensing process, while new entrants must obtain a license from the Commission. She expressed the importance of following licensing processes and criteria and compliance measures to avoid punitive actions. Water Engineer, Arnold Williams, outlined the parameters and processes required for applying for licenses from the Commission. In response to concerns raised by the Water Companies regarding the Union, the Union Representative explained the importance of union legislation, and the challenges posed by multiple regulatory bodies. He expressed the Union’s legitimacy and its role in effectively representing all water companies, The meeting ended with the EWRC officials reiterating their commitment to supporting water companies in meeting regulatory requirements while promoting public health and safety.
Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission Opens New Regional Office in Kenema
The Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (SLEWRC) proudly inaugurated its new regional office in Kenema on 2nd August 2024, marking a significant milestone in the Commission’s ongoing efforts to enhance regulatory oversight and improve service delivery in the water and electricity sectors across the Eastern region of Sierra Leone. The event, held at the Kenema City Plaza, commenced at 10:00 AM with an attendance of distinguished guests, community leaders, and representatives from various stakeholders. The ceremony was masterfully guided by Commissioner Saidu Boakarie, who delivered the welcome and opening remarks, setting a tone of enthusiasm and commitment for the occasion. A moment of unity and reflection followed, as attendees participated in prayers led in both Christian and Muslim traditions, emphasizing the inclusive spirit of the event. Deputy Director General, Sama I. Sandy, took the podium to introduce the esteemed guests and attendees, acknowledging the presence of key figures who have played pivotal roles in advancing the regulatory landscape of Sierra Leone. The keynote address was delivered by the Honorable Member of Parliament representing the Oversight Committee on Water, Hon. Ing. Fallah Tengbeh. His speech highlighted the critical importance of effective regulation in ensuring the sustainability and efficiency of water and electricity services, and he lauded the SLEWRC for its proactive measures in expanding its regional presence. Special remarks were also made by the President of the Sierra Leone Water Union, Mustapha A.S Skaikay, who underscored the collaborative efforts between the Union and the Commission in driving sector reforms and improving service quality for the citizens of Sierra Leone. A comprehensive presentation on the role and impact of the SLEWRC was given by Director General Emmanuel Manah. He detailed the Commission’s achievements, ongoing projects, and future plans, emphasizing the strategic importance of the new regional office in facilitating closer engagement with local stakeholders and enhancing regulatory compliance. The highlight of the ceremony was the ribbon-cutting event, symbolizing the official opening of the Kenema office. The ribbon, adorned in the national colors of green, white, and blue, was jointly cut by a representative from the district council, the Honorable Member of Parliament, and the Commissioners of the SLEWRC, signifying a unified commitment to progress and development. In his closing remarks and vote of thanks, Communications Officer Komba Ngongou expressed gratitude to all attendees and partners for their support and participation. He reiterated the Commission’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and excellence in service delivery. The event concluded with refreshments and a networking session, providing an opportunity for guests to engage in meaningful discussions and forge stronger collaborative ties. The opening of the SLEWRC Regional Office in Kenema represents a crucial step towards decentralized regulation and improved access to regulatory services for communities in the Eastern region. The Commission remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that all Sierra Leoneans have access to reliable, efficient, and sustainable water and electricity services.
SLEWRC CONCLUDES NATIONWIDE PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS ON REVIEW OF THE SLEWRC’s Act 2011
The Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (SLEWRC ) has successfully concluded its public consultations on the proposed review of the SLEWRC Act 2011, to solicit input from key stakeholders, industry experts and community members about a potential repeal and replacement of the SLEWRC Act of 2011. On Monday, 2nd September, 2024 a pivotal stakeholder consultation gathering was held at the SALWACO Conference Hall in Tower Hill, Freetown, focusing specifically on the water sectors. Dr. Emmanuel Mannah, Director General of the SLEWRC emphasized the necessity of a thorough review of its current Act. He stressed that rather than reviewing certain provisions of the existing legislation, a complete repeal and replacement would be a more robust solution to address the evolving challenges within the water sector. The Legal consultant, Alfred Paul Juwah Esq, during his presentation provided insights into the limitations of the existing SLEWRC Act No. 13 of 2011, stressing that the outdated Act impedes on the commission’s ability to operate effectively and efficiently in regulating water and electricity respectively. He reiterated the importance of clearly defining the commission’s role to prioritize the delivery of high-quality of electricity and water services to the citizens of Sierra Leone. The legal luminary revealed concerns about the terms of board members, suggesting that the new legislation should clarify whether Commissioners are to serve on a part-time or full- time basis and specify the nature of their terms. He further recommended that the review Act should retain the current provisions regarding the appointment of the Director General, and introduced a new role for a Deputy Director-General to assist in the commission’s operations. These recommendations emerged following the discussions initiated by a Judicial Review Committee meeting held on March 16, 2023, which aimed to strengthen the SLEWRC’s oversight capacities over public utilities, including the Guma Valley Water Company. As it stands, the existing Act mandates that the chairman and other commission members, with the exception of the Director-General, serve three-year terms with the possibility of one term reappointment. Mr. Paul Juwah Esq further proposed for an expansion of the Act’s language to more explicitly delineate regulatory duties and suggested the inclusion of a legal professional appointed by the President to the SLEWRC board. Hon. Musa Lahai, the chairperson of the Committee on Water Resources, encouraged the SLEWRC to advance the draft legislation to the parliamentary committee for additional insights and contributions. This collaborative approach aims to foster a more effective regulatory environment that can adapt to the dynamic needs of Sierra Leone’s electricity and water sectors. Thus, the stakeholder consultation meeting focused on the regulatory framework and market entry for the water and energy sectors, underscoring the need to address competition issues and enhance complaint resolution by transforming communities into a tribunal. Key discussions include establishing a tribunal with quasi-judicial powers, clarifying licensing provisions, and the potential for private sector participation in water provision. Considerations were made regarding tariff harmonization between different water producers, operational costs, and environmental protection enforcement mechanisms. The meeting also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the SLEWRC and other agencies, as well as the need for a balanced approach towards private and public sector roles in the water sector. Participants also made comments as to certain provisions for amendments to the Act, highlighting the reservations of the Guma Valley Water Company and the necessities for clear qualifications for key positions. Action items were established to address private sector participation, review tariff discrepancies, and incorporate stakeholder input into the draft Act, all aiming to facilitate effective regulation and oversight.
Water Engineer (INTERNAL & EXTERNAL)
NUMBER OF POSITIONS: Three (3) POSITION: Water Engineer (INTERNAL & EXTERNAL) LOCATION: Freetown (With possibility for public engagement outside Freetown) REPORTING TO: Director of Water In keeping with Section 23 (1) of the Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (EWRC) Act of 2011, the Commission hereby invites applications from suitably qualified applicants to fill the position of Water Engineer The Water Engineer shall be responsible for processing licence applications and applying licence templates to each application, drafting reasons for decisions, assisting rates and tariffs department with water related tariff applications when required. Responsible for regulating the water service providers by monitoring their compliance with licence conditions, water service standards to ensure the users get the minimum level quality services established by set government standards. The successful applicant must demonstrate the highest levels of responsibility, professionalism, leadership, integrity, and expertise. SKILLS, EXPERIENCE AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES A minimum of first degree from a recognized university in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, with emphasis on Quality Management or any other related qualification. Additional postgraduate qualifications in Engineering or qualifications in an area relevant to the mandate of the EWRC will be an advantage; Should be a professional Engineer certified by the Professional Engineers Registration Council and should possess an annual practicing certificate. Not less than three (3) years relevant post qualification work experience in a similar position; Knowledge of Sierra Leone’s water sector; Very good communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills; Knowledge and competence in ICT applications. COMPETENCIES Knowledge and experience in regulatory monitoring and enforcement; Knowledge and experience in water and sanitation issues; Knowledge about local laws and best practices in regulatory compliance; Ability to use tact, maturity and sound reasoning; Ability to perform independently and as a member of a team Strong presentation, communication and report writing skills; Excellent organizational skills. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Assist the Director/Head of Water Regulation in: Processing licence applications Drafting conditions of licence Drafting reasons for decisions for the granting/retention/suspension of licence Assisting with water related rates applications where required Setting comprehensive plans for the Regulations Quality Monitoring Developing approach for setting up monitoring process Organizing resources to conduct monitoring Working with monitoring and enforcement where penalties need to be applied Studying patterns and trends in quality service and recommends systemic solutions to industry Preparing internal and external reports for the Commission as required. Preparing performance reports of all employees under his authority, and submitting them to the Human Resource Identifying the section’s needs for tools, equipment, human resources, etc. and submitting them to the Human Resource, for approval. Any other duties as may be assigned by the Director/Head – Water. POSITION: Head of Economic Regulation LOCATION: Freetown (With possibility for public engagement outside Freetown) REPORTING TO: Director General In keeping with Section 23 (1) of the Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (SLEWRC) Act of 2011, the Commission hereby invites applications from suitably qualified applicants to fill the position of Head of Economic Regulation. The successful candidate must demonstrate the highest levels of responsibility, professionalism, leadership, integrity, and expertise. As part of our regulatory mandate, the Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission is responsible for regulating water and Electricity services in Sierra Leone. The economic regulatory department is responsible for all rate setting for all electricity and water regulated entities thereby creating a balance on consumer interest, government and investor (operators) and monitoring compliance; make certain that they conform to required standards and procedures for quality services and related products to be supplied to consumers. He or she will report to the Director General The successful applicant must demonstrate the highest levels of responsibility, professionalism, leadership, integrity, and expertise. SKILLS, EXPERIENCE AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES Master’s Degree or higher in Economics, Corporate Finance, Financial Planning, Accountancy or other related disciplines. Added advantage in Financial Regulations in energy and water. Have a minimum of 3-4 years in management position. Have a minimum of 5 years general experience, with a minimum of four years specifically on economics and finance. Familiarity with the government structures in Sierra Leone, especially as pertains to the financial policies and financial regulations. Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel and other related software. Experience supervising and managing department and auxiliary staff. Excellent written and oral English. Capacity to complete the work with high quality COMPETENCIES Knowledge of MS Office Suit Knowledge and experience in regulatory monitoring and compliance; Knowledge about both local & international laws and best practices in regulatory compliance; Ability to use tact, maturity and sound reasoning; Ability to perform independently and as a member of a team Strong presentation, communication and report writing skills; Excellent organizational management skills. Knowledge of Economic and Financial modeling DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Meet with local authorities, Public Utility Contractors and operators in the electricity and water sector Provide the commission with performance indicators for public Utilities and vendors in the electricity and water Sector Liaise with legal division in the development of frameworks necessary for the economic and technical regulation for the electricity and water sector Provide expert testimony and advice the Director General and the Board on financial regulatory issues as required Monitor performance of the electricity and water supply sector in terms of levels of investment, availability, cost and reliability of services and levels of efficiency in production and distribution Develop benchmark for public utilities in the electricity and water sector Supervise staff within the Economic Regulation division Ensure Statutory reporting, general management policies and procedures are adhered to Preparing presentation and writing reports, presenting product documentation Evaluate contracts and make sure that all the work is completed within deadline Monitor progress of any given project from feasibility stage to implementation and handover Provide input to the EWRC’S business planning Monitor technical compliance to standards To undertake other duties as assigned by the Deputy-Director General POSITION: Tariff Analyst (INTERNAL & EXTERNAL) LOCATION: Freetown (With possibility for public engagement outside Freetown) REPORTING TO: Head of Economic Regulations In keeping with Section 23 (1) of the Sierra Leone Electricity and
APPROVED TARIFF BY SIERRA LEONE ELECTRICITY AND WATER REGULATORY COMMISSION FOR SIERRA LEONE WATER COMPANY (SALWACO) EFFECTIVE 15th JUNE 2022
News Brief‼️‼️‼️ The Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (SLEWRC) on the 12th May, 2022 approved the Sierra Leone Water Company (SALWACO)’s proposed tariff that was submitted to the Commission. The tariff structure was approved at a board meeting held on the 12th of May, 2022 in fulfilment of the Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission’s Act of 2011, Section 45(1). The approved tariff will be effective the 15th of June 2022.
APPROVED TARIFF BY SIERRA LEONE ELECTRICITY AND WATER REGULATORY COMMISSION FOR ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION AND SUPPLY AUTHORITY (EDSA) EFFECTIVE 1st. October 2023
The above tariff structure was resolved at the board meeting on 26th September 2023 in the fulfillment of the Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission Act 2011, Section 45(1)
SLEWRC HOLDS PRESS CONFERENCE ON AGREED FACTORY PRICE FOR SACHET/PACKAGED WATER
Proper Pricing of water changes consumption preference, motivates consumers to use water much more efficiently, and higher prices have unfavorable effects on low-income households. Putting the right price on the water will encourage people to waste less, pollute less and ensure its availability. The right price can encourage efficiency and investment thus, the reason for the Commission holding stakeholders’ engagement on the commission’s mandate and price harmonization to benefit water sachet producers and consumers. A press conference was held at the Commission’s headquarters, 55 Berwick Street in Freetown on Friday 27th May 2022 in which media houses were adequately informed about the shift in the price of sachet water ranging from factories, distributors, and the maximum purchasing price of the final consumers. The Director-General, Dr. Emmanuel Mannah in his opening statement, stated that the last tariff adjustment for the sachet water producers was in 2019 and at a rate of Le 3,500 and despite the high increase in the price of materials they have been addressing consumer demand. Stating that the water union apply to the Commission for an increase in tariff as a result of the variance in the prices of their production materials and they cannot continue to run at loss. As a Commission with the mandate to regulate the provision of the highest quality of electricity and water services to consumers; providing guidelines on rates chargeable for the provision of electricity and water services; and charged with the responsibility to carry out regular reviews of rates and changes, have done the technical analysis on the water union tariff application and have agreed to come up with the following prices both in the interest of the consumers and producers. Distributors are expected to receive factory price of Le: 4,500 and sell at a price not exceeding Le:5,000, while end users/ consumers are expected not to buy more than Le: 6,000. Director of Economic Regulation, Mr. Brima Bah, emphasized that these new tariffs comply with the Sachet and Water Regulation Rules and any producers who does not comply with these rules will not be a beneficiary of these new tariffs. The public relations officer(PRO) for the Water Union, Mr. Max Jalloh, commended the Director-General and team for their tireless efforts to keep water producers alive in their struggle. He also urged producers to comply with the new rates set by the Commission. The press conference was attended by representative, Mr. Christian Lawal, Ministry of Trade, and Industry, a representative, Mr. Ibrahim M. Kabia, of the Consumer Protection Agency, and a representative of various media including print and broadcast media, and Commission staff. Courtesy of the Consumer and Public Affairs Department, SLEWRC
COMPLIANCE TRAINING WORKSHOP FOR WATER PRODUCERS IN BO CITY
The Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission on Friday 11th March 2022 held a compliance training workshop for sachet and bottled water producers at the Sidami Memorial Hall at New Gerihun Road in Bo city to ensure safety practices by the producers. The delegation from the SLEWRC was led by the Director-General, Dr. Emmanuel Mannah who, in his opening statement, stated that the purpose of the compliance training was as a result of the unacceptable practices of water producers in the industry. He expressed the hope that the training would aid producers to grasp full knowledge on the appropriate and acceptable practices that would be safe and fit for consumption. The Director-General further mentioned that factories operating without the SLEWRC license were not qualified to produce water and circulate it for consumption. Dr. Mannah thanked representatives from the various agencies, institutions, and specifically the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Water for their commitment and reliable support. A brief background of the Commission and its operational pillars (quality, market-entry, and tariff or rate setting) was then given by the Acting Deputy Director-General. He stated that the Commission is mandated to ensure that operators and producers provide services or products that are of the highest quality for consumption, adding that the Commission sets rates and tariffs for entities in the regulated electricity and water industries and also provides an open platform for individuals or investors who wish to engage in either electricity or water service businesses. Representatives from the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Sierra Leone Standard Bureau, SALWACO, and WASH, also made statements on their role in the sachet and bottled water production process. The training workshop was chaired by Commissioner Juana P. Moiwo who commended the Director-General and team for their relentless effort in ensuring that the lives of Sierra Leoneans are protected against water-borne diseases. Representatives
EWRC CONDUCTS CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY
PUBLIC NOTICE: EWRC CONDUCTS CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY The Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission wish to bring to the attention of the public that its personnel are currently conducting a Customer Satisfaction survey and is hereby calling on all to give these persons the utmost cooperation during this period. The survey is aimed to assess improvements, if any in the water service delivery by Guma Valley Water Company (GVWC) over the past two years. With this background, the Commission is conducting a survey to ascertain the quality of service, water availability and consumers overall satisfaction of the different service levels. The survey also hopes to provide an independent opinion on the level of service delivery in Freetown by Guma Valley Water Company (GVWC). Thus, this survey shall analyze the perception of customers’ satisfaction as the Commission prepares to review or implement a cost reflective tariff adjustment for GVWC. Areas to be covered include the East, East Central and West Zones. It should be noted that the SLEWRC personnel conducting the survey will be appropriately attired complete with an identification card and branded vests. For further information, please contact the Commission at its 55 Berwick Office in Freetown or on +23278359299. Signed Emmanuel Mannah, Director General