Energy Law at Central African Republic
Here’s a detailed overview of Energy Law in the Central African Republic (CAR) as of 2025:
🇨🇫 Energy Law in the Central African Republic: Overview
1. Legal Framework
The energy sector in CAR is governed by a combination of:
Law No. 15.011 (2015) on the Electricity Sector, which regulates electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and commercialization.
Various decrees and regulations issued by the Ministry of Energy.
The legal framework is still developing, aiming to improve access to electricity and promote sustainable energy use.
CAR is a member of regional organizations such as the Central African Power Pool (CAPP), which influences energy policy and integration.
2. Regulatory Authorities
Ministry of Energy and Water Resources — oversees policy, planning, and regulation.
Electricity Regulatory Authority (ARSEL) — independent regulator for licensing, tariffs, and market oversight.
Société Centrafricaine d’Électricité (SCE) — state-owned utility managing generation, transmission, and distribution.
3. Electricity Sector
Electricity access is very limited, especially outside Bangui (capital).
Generation relies mostly on small thermal plants and some hydroelectric facilities.
Grid infrastructure is underdeveloped and faces frequent outages.
Efforts are underway to expand rural electrification and improve grid reliability.
4. Renewable Energy
High potential for hydropower, solar, and biomass energy.
The government promotes renewable energy projects through policy statements but lacks detailed incentive frameworks.
Support from international donors and development banks is critical for renewable projects.
5. Investment Climate
Energy infrastructure investment is a priority for economic development.
Foreign investment encouraged but subject to security, regulatory, and bureaucratic challenges.
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are seen as a tool to boost infrastructure development.
CAR benefits from regional integration initiatives aiming to improve power exchange and reliability.
6. Energy Challenges
Political instability and security issues affect sector development.
Limited financial and technical resources constrain expansion.
Regulatory and institutional capacity-building are ongoing priorities.
✅ Key Opportunities
Development of small hydro and solar mini-grids for rural electrification.
Renewable energy projects with international funding.
Regional power trade via CAPP.
Modernization and rehabilitation of existing thermal plants.
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