Minister: Implementation of program on liberalization of the electric  power complex of Armenia will be completed within the next two years

ArmInfo.The implementation of the program for the liberalization of the electric power complex of  Armenia will be completed within the next two years, the Minister of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of the Republic of Armenia Artur Grigoryan told ArmInfo on June 30.

According to him, since last year the implementation process has  already begun, and  certain time is needed for the program to fully  work. "A good legislative base has been developed, all prerequisites  have been created for more active work to this goal," the Armenian  Minister said, pointing out the importance of this program, which  will not only promote the development of the electric power market,  but also reduce tariffs.  To recall the program of liberalization of  the electricity market of Armenia, launched in 2017, envisages the  introduction of the institute of an alternative electricity supplier.  The consumer will have the opportunity to purchase electricity from  other suppliers besides "Electric Networks of Armenia",.  Nevertheless, the "Electric Networks of Armenia" will remain the  guaranteed supplier of the product. Those consumers who do not want  to purchase electricity from alternative suppliers, can continue to  receive it from networks.  Another innovation concerns the entry of  large wholesale consumers into the market, who will be able to  purchase electricity directly from generation facilities, import it  and use it for their own needs. Thus, according to the program, the  actions of large wholesale consumers are considerably simplified, the  licenses for which are combined into one. This measure is aimed at  regional integration, which should lead to a significant increase in  the private sector market. The powers of the regulatory bodies,  represented by the Ministry of Energy Infrastructures and Natural  Resources of the Republic of Armenia and the Commission on Regulation  of Public Services, are also regulated.