Electricity (Generation, Transmission and Distribution Activities) Rules, 2019 (GN 287 of 2019).

These Regulations, consisting of 84 sections, govern regulatory matters related to electricity activities in Mainland Tanzania, including generation (even for own use), transmission, distribution, and cross-border trade, as well as defining eligible customers. Under Section 4, any regulated activity can only be conducted with a license, following the rules outlined in Article 5. Before applying for a full license, applicants can seek a provisional license from the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority to undertake preparatory activities such as assessments, studies, and financial arrangements, as detailed in Section 8. Operators unable to meet full licensing requirements for regulated activities may apply for an exemption from Section 8 of the Act, provided they register with the Authority and furnish project details and reasons for their request. However, generation activities under one megawatt or off-grid rural distribution below one megawatt are automatically exempt. The Authority has the power to suspend a license for up to twelve months for violations or unpaid fees, or to revoke it if a licensee fails to rectify a breach after being ordered. As an alternative to suspension or revocation, the Authority may waive a suspension if the violation ceases or appoint an administrator to manage the licensee's affairs.
Chapter III outlines the obligations of various electricity licensees, encompassing generation, transmission, distribution, and cross-border trade, along with their general duties. All licensees must provide reliable services, operate and maintain their facilities, charge approved tariffs, and conduct all related works following Prudent Utility Practices and applicable laws. They also have a general obligation to operate without discrimination or bias, not cease activities, and compensate any person for injury, loss of life, or property resulting from their regulated operations. Disputes over compensation are initially handled between the injured party and the licensee, with the Authority intervening if no amicable settlement is reached. Furthermore, a transmission licensee specifically must take reasonable steps to prepare for emergencies (including exercises and tests) and rapidly restore the transmission network after a disaster. They are also required to establish procedures ensuring the safe and continuous operation of the power system during emergencies, adhering to market rules and Authority-approved codes and standards.