Commentary on Sections Part 3: Energy Regulation.Summary and Background Appeals from GEMA decisions
335.Sections 173 to 176 provide for an appeals mechanism to the Competition Commission against GEMA decisions on modifications to the Gas and Electricity Network Codes. The measure is designed to improve the accountability of the process by which the detailed rules that govern activities in the gas and electricity markets as set out in various industry codes are amended. The codes are designed to allow ongoing amendment. Modifications can currently be proposed by a party to the code. Such proposals are then considered in accordance with the modification procedure set out in the code which results in a recommendation to GEMA. GEMA makes the final decision whether the proposed modification should be accepted or rejected. The regulator is not bound to accept the recommendation, although it must issue a decision letter explaining its choice. In the absence of an appeals mechanism, market participants’ only means of redress at present is to initiate a judicial review of GEMA’s decision.