In the first quarter of 2024, the Azerbaijan Energy Regulatory Agency (AERA) received a total of 1770 appeals, both directly and through the Ministry of Energy, concerning consumer rights protection, electric and thermal energy supply, natural gas, and other related matters. Of these appeals, 1444 were related to electricity supply, including 161 of informational nature. There were 260 appeals regarding natural gas supply, with 29 of them being informational. The Agency received a total of 42 appeals regarding heat supply, out of which 2 were informational. Meanwhile, 24 appeals concerned other issues, with 5 of them being informational.
Out of the appeals received, 1183 were investigated and responded by the Agency, 18 appeals were forwarded to relevant institutions for further consideration and action, and 2 appeals were executed jointly with the Ministry of Energy. Currently, 388 appeals are under consideration. 100 of the 197 informational appeals were expressions of gratitude for resolved issues.
During the reporting period, commissioning certificates were issued for electrical units installed in 29 new and reconstructed facilities, as well as in the facilities with increased capacity and updated power supply schemes, which had been granted permission for use. Operational clearance was granted for industrial gas facilities constructed under 61 approved projects.
At the same time, inspection of the technical condition of 57 electricity billing meters took place with participation of representatives from Azerenerji OJSC and Azerishiq OJSC.
Thirty-five administrative offense cases were considered in line with the relevant articles of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Republic of Azerbaijan, falling under the Agency’s competence. Administrative disciplinary actions were taken in 33 cases, whereas in 2 cases it was decided to terminate the proceedings.
Additionally, 295 control measures were conducted to assess the technical operation of electrical installations, adherence to safety rules, and electricity usage. Five control measures were carried out to evaluate the technical operation of heating installations, safety compliance, and thermal energy usage. 243 control measures were implemented to ensure compliance with efficient gas utilization, “Gas Usage Rules”, and the reliable operation of gas facilities, as well as other regulatory acts.
Furthermore, Technical Councils operating in 15 “ASAN Service” centers, 3 “ASAN Kommunal” centers, and 3 SME (small and medium enterprise) houses received 647 requests for connecting entrepreneurial facilities to the electrical grid, which were processed.
During the reporting period, the professional knowledge of 143 electrotechnician staff and personnel responsible for electrical facilities in 64 enterprises was assessed regarding technical operation rules and safety, and methodological assistance was extended to relevant individuals in this regard.
