Designing a robust electricity regulator model using the systems approach with application to liberalization of the electricity sector in Botswana

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Obok-Opok, A | Anderson, G O | Mothibi, J

Affiliations: Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Botswana, Private Bag UB0061 Gaborone, Botswana. E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]

Abstract: The electricity supply industry in Botswana is targeted for privatization in the near future. The paper presents the current contextual characteristics of the electricity sector in Botswana and the structure of the wholesale electricity market, as proposed under deregulation. Under deregulation, the sector will be overseen by an electricity regulator yet to be formed. The paper presents an electricity regulator model intended for deregulation in Botswana. Two systems approaches have been used to design the regulator model: qualitative system dynamics and the viable system model. The characteristics of the sector have been integrated into the regulator model through the systems approaches to ensure that the model will be relevant, effective, efficient, and responsive to the sector under liberalization. The regulator model comprises four modules, including the structure. The contribution of the paper derives from its use of the systems methods in designing a model of an electricity regulatory agency reflecting robustness, effectiveness, and efficiency for improved performance.

DOI: 10.3233/IJR-120057

Journal: International Journal of Regulation and Governance, vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 177-208, 2006