ZERA tightens screws on service station licensing

The energy regulator Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) wants a halt on new fuel stations as it tightens up licensing rules.

Currently, a developer can get a commercial permit from council, build a station, and only later apply for a ZERA licence.

ZERA wants to be part of the process from the beginning.

“The regulator is also pushing for by-laws to set minimum distances between service stations,” Chief Executive Officer Edington Mazambani says.

The fuel retail business has exploded over the past decade, with licensed companies jumping from 229 in 2012 to 996 last year, according to ZERA’s 2024 sector report.

ZERA is a body corporate established in terms of the Energy Regulatory Authority Act [Chapter 13:23] of 2011. It is mandated to regulate the entire energy sector in Zimbabwe in a fair, transparent, efficient and cost effective manner for the benefit of the consumers and energy suppliers.

ZERA derives its mandate from the Energy Regulatory Authority Act [Chapter 13:23] of 2011 read together with the Electricity Act no 4 of 2002 [Chapter 13:19], the Petroleum Act [Chapter 13:22] of 2006 and subsequent amendments.

Zwnews