The Papua New Guinea National Energy Authority (PNG NEA) has officially launched its Board Charter and Appeals Panel Guidelines, signifying the establishment of its governance framework.
This initiative aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the NEA, ultimately improving the efficiency and fairness of the country's energy sector.
The Appeals Panel Guidelines serve two primary purposes:
- To define the roles, responsibilities, and powers of the Board, both individually and collectively, in guiding the National Energy Authority (NEA).
- To establish governance rules and Board procedures in compliance with Section 64D of the Public Finance (Management) Act 1995 and Subsection 24 (6) of the National Energy Authority Act 2021.
On October 15th, key figures from the energy sector convened at Lamana Hotel in Port Moresby for the launch event. Attendees included Board Members, Senior NEA Management, and Appeals Panel Members.
The ceremony featured remarks from Mr. Joseph Gabut, NEA Board Chairman; Mr. James Gore, Appeals Panel Chairman; and Mr. Ronald Meketa, Managing Director of NEA.
The day's agenda included the unveiling of the Board Charter, followed by the Appeals Panel Guidelines, the swearing-in of Board members, and the presentation of certificates to inaugural Appeals Panel Members.
The signatories of the Charter of Good Governance committed to fulfilling their duties with the understanding that they represent the interests of the people of PNG.
In his address, Mr. Gabut emphasized the importance of the new legislative framework, stating: "In public institutions, there are always complaints, which highlights the need for public access to information and community engagement in national development.”
Drawing from his diverse experiences, Gabut expressed confidence in the Appeals Panel's capacity to effectively address grievances.
He underscored the significance of the Board Charter saying, "A good document is essential, but it is the commitment of the board members that will determine its success."
Gabut called on all governance participants to prioritize the welfare of PNG, emphasizing the critical role of integrity in public service.
Appeals Panel:
Mr. Gore, the newly appointed Chairman of the Appeals Panel, recognized the importance of the panel's establishment. "It is our unwavering commitment to uphold integrity, fairness, and professionalism."
Gore outlined the panel's main responsibilities, including reviewing appeals, maintaining transparency, and ensuring high standards of justice.
He noted that the panel would serve as an efficient dispute resolution mechanism, expediting processes and reducing legal costs for stakeholders.
"The primary purpose of the NEA Appeals Panel is to ensure a fair and transparent process for addressing grievances and appeals," Gore explained.
"We will meticulously review appeals submitted by stakeholders, ensuring that each case is evaluated based on merit."
He described the Appeals Panel as a vital mechanism for conflict resolution outside the court system, designed to streamline processes and minimize legal expenses.
The panel operates under established guidelines for receiving, managing, and deciding appeals in accordance with the NEA Act.
The Appeals Panel provides a statutory avenue for applicants to appeal decisions made by mandated individuals under Part IV of the NEA Act before seeking judicial review in the National Court.
“We aim to provide clear explanations of our decisions to all parties involved and uphold the highest standards of justice and fairness,” Gore said.
NEA Managing Director Mr. Meketa highlighted NEA's functions, such as issuing licenses and overseeing compliance with technical standards.
Meketa stressed the urgent need to improve energy connectivity in Papua New Guinea, where significant service gaps remain.
“It is better to have a proper governance in place to guide us through, even though we are very serious in our respective sectors we come from and represent.”
Achieving 100% electricity connectivity by 2050 would require substantial investment, estimated at 15 billion kina, he noted.
“We are trying to assist the government in reaching its mission and vision 2050, 2030. We've got to connect 70% by 2030, and we've got five years."
Meketa pointed out the challenges posed by aging infrastructure, the need for reinvestment and collaboration with independent power producers, and public-private partnerships to address the country’s energy challenges.
“Our board, alongside management and the newly established Appeals Panel, is committed to unlocking potential, improving services, and attracting investors,” he explained.
“If we can offer competitive pricing to manufacturers, we could see significant investment in PNG.”
He concluded by sharing insights on recent licensing successes, including the Namatanae District Development Authority’s concession for energy generation and distribution, which he described as a model for future initiatives.
