The National Energy Authority (NEA) of Papua New Guinea (PNG) is now able to resolve conflicts or issues brought about by its stakeholders regarding matters relating to the country’s energy and electricity sector, through its newly launched Appeals Panel. The NEA also launched its Appeals Panel Guideline and Board Charter for Good Governance yesterday in Port Moresby city, along with the induction of the panel members, which includes the inaugural Chairman of the NEA Appeals Panel Mr. James Gore, who represents the Certified Practicing Accountants (CPA) of PNG. “The primary purpose of the NEA Appeals Panel is to ensure a fair and transparent process for addressing grievances and appeals within the National Energy Authority,” said Mr. Gore. The NEA Appeals Panel Mandate includes: · Reviewing Appeals; the Appeals Panel will meticulously review appeals submitted by stakeholders ensuring that each case is based on merit and in accordance with NEA policies and regulations, · Maintain Transparency; the Appeals Panel is committed to maintaining a transparent process providing clear and comprehensive explanation to all parties involved, and · Upholding Standards: through the Appeals Panel work, the NEA aims to uphold the highest standards of justice and fairness, reinforcing the credibility and trust in the NEA. Furthermore, Mr. Gore said the NEA Appeals Panel serves as an alternate resolution channel for resolving conflicts outside the court system. “This approach not only expedites the resolution process, but also reduces legal costs for all parties involved” “So, in conclusion, collective we will foster and environment of trust, accountability and excellence within the National Energy Authority.” Meantime, both documents (Board Charter and Appeals Panel Guideline) are vital for good governance and will support and guide the functions and operations of its governing Board and Appeals Panel. PURPOSE The purpose of this Guideline is to provide a clear process that guides the Appeals Panel and the Authority. 1. Ensure that all stakeholders in the electricity supply services understands the proper process for lodging an appeal application or requesting a review of a decision made under Part IV of the NEA Act, and 2. Provide the timeframe within which an appeal application should be dealt with regards to the lodgement and the review period; and 3. Outline the form and manner in which the appeal application will be lodged. APPLICABLE LAWS For purposes of this Guideline, the applicable laws referenced are: · The Constitution of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea · The National Energy Authority Act 2021 · The Electricity Industry Act Chapter 78 · The Independent Consumer and Competitions Commission Act 2002 (ICCC Act 2002) · The Boards (Fees and Allowances) Act 1995 LEGAL BASIS The Appeals Panel is established by Section 42 of the NEA Act. Section 121 (2) (f) of the NEA Act allows for the Appeals Panel Committees established under the NEA Act to develop governing rules to be enacted as regulations. However, the development and enactment process require a longer period of time, therefore, the option taken is a “necessary and convenient” approach to develop this Guideline to be approved by the Board pursuit to Section 11 (1) of the NEA Act.