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Deployment of Third-Party Services: A New Era for Energy, Telecommunication and ICT Providers

In a move aimed at promoting transparency, efficiency, and consumer protection, the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURPA) has introduced new guidelines governing the deployment of third-party services by energy, telecommunication, and ICT providers.

Effective Date

These guidelines shall become effective from the date of signature.

Key Requirements

Under the new guidelines, providers must submit detailed proposals for partnership projects, including:

  • Total investment and operating costs with supporting documents
  • Deployment and marketing strategy
  • Charges for services, charging mechanisms, and justifications for charges
  • Customer issue resolution processes and procedures
  • Distribution and sales of cards mechanisms
  • Proposed commercial terms and conditions
  • Dispute resolution procedures and processes

Providers must also provide copies of draft contract agreements, non-disclosure agreements, protocol licensing agreements, and certification of compliance, if applicable.

Evaluation Process

Upon receipt of a notification from a provider intending to deploy third-party services, PURPA will conduct an appropriate technical, financial, and commercial review, analysis, and evaluation of the notification. This may involve requests for clarification, supplementary information, access to facilities/sites, presentations, and technical specifications, financial documents, and commercial documentation.

Timeline

The process will follow a structured timeline, with key milestones including:

  • Week 1: Licensee/service provider submits partnership proposal
  • Week 2-3: Preliminary review and assessment by PURPA
  • Week 3-4: Consultations with stakeholders and request for further clarification
  • Week 5-7: Detailed review, analysis, and evaluation of the proposal
  • Week 8: Report including determinations forwarded to relevant authorities for endorsement

Issued by

Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURPA)

Dated this [Date] day of [Month], [Year].

Director General

[Signature]

The new guidelines aim to promote a more efficient, transparent, and consumer-friendly regulatory environment for energy, telecommunication, and ICT providers. With its implementation, PURPA is poised to play a crucial role in ensuring that these critical sectors operate in the best interests of consumers.