The Utility Regulator already issues formal regulatory letters in the water and sewerage sector in Northern Ireland. We now intend to introduce this practice to the energy sector, therefore extending the use of regulatory letters to all licensees we regulate. Regulatory letters are a common tool used by regulators to communicate important matters such as regulatory policy positions, or to provide clarification of obligations for licensees - for example, how a particular licence condition should be interpreted. They can also serve as a reminder to the industry of its obligations or the Utility Regulator’s existing policy, as necessary.
Regulatory letters will not be used as an everyday method for communicating with industry.
Each regulatory letter will be issued directly to licensees as well as published on our website. They will also be individually numbered and referenced, for ease of application. The regulatory letters will be issued under one of six categories – common utility (which will include water), common energy, electricity, gas, water or retail; and will apply equally to all respective licensees.
The Utility Regulator will issue the first common utility regulatory letter in due course.