Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act, 2024 (Act 861 of 2024).

This Act, comprising 71 articles, aims to regulate the efficient consumption and conservation of energy, improve and increase energy efficiency, and prevent energy waste. It applies to energy consumers whose consumption meets or exceeds a prescribed threshold within 12 months, buildings described in the Third Schedule, and any energy-using products specified in the guidelines by the Commission. The main functions of the Commission include advising the Minister on energy efficiency and conservation, recommending policies and laws, promoting and implementing initiatives, exercising regulatory functions, setting qualifications and tests, encouraging private sector investments, conducting research, publishing relevant information, recognizing training programs, promoting public participation and awareness, setting and ensuring compliance with targets, and performing any other necessary actions to fulfill its duties effectively. Part III outlines the duties of energy consumers, including appointing a registered energy manager to collect and analyze energy data, implement and monitor an energy management system, prepare and ensure the accuracy of energy efficiency and conservation reports, and advise on energy-saving measures. Energy consumers must also develop and implement an energy management system, conduct regular energy audits through registered energy auditors, and submit energy audit reports to the Commission. Non-compliance can result in fines. Part IV details the duties of the person in charge of a building, including applying for and displaying an energy intensity label, ensuring compliance with energy efficiency ratings, conducting energy audits, and submitting energy audit reports and efficiency improvement plans to the Commission. Non-compliance can result in fines. Part V mandates that energy-using products must have an energy efficiency rating label to sell, display, advertise, or lease. Manufacturers and importers must be registered with the Commission and obtain a certificate of energy efficiency for their products. Non-compliance can result in fines or imprisonment.
The Act also includes (i) provisions for the seizure and forfeiture of documents related to offences under the Act, with a clear process for listing and notifying affected parties; (ii) procedural considerations for the attendance of individuals acquainted with cases and the responsibilities of authorized officers in enforcing compliance, ensuring that stakeholder involvement is integral to the Act's execution.