Public Utilities and Energy Law Services
Public utilities and the energy sector are among the most strictly regulated areas of the Georgian economy. This includes the supply of electricity, natural gas, water supply, and sanitation services to both the population and the commercial sector. Companies operating in this field (Energo-Pro, Telasi, SOCAR, Georgian Water and Power) and their subscribers often face legal disputes related to tariffs, connection deadlines, metering accuracy, and service quality. The Georgian National Energy and Water Supply Regulatory Commission (GNERC) is the main arbiter in these relationships, but qualified legal assistance is essential in complex disputes. Our service offers legal support for both consumers (businesses and individuals) and utility companies.
What Does This Service Cover?
Energy law specialists registered on Legal.ge offer:
- New Connection Management: Legal supervision of the process of connecting a business facility or residential house to electricity, gas, and water networks (deadline control, fee calculation).
- GNERC Disputes: Preparing complaints and representation at GNERC hearings regarding unfounded debts, meter reading corrections, or service termination.
- Tariff Audit: Verification and optimization of tariffs charged to commercial subscribers.
- Network Arrangement Permits: Obtaining permits from the municipality and Public Registry (easement) for the construction of communication and energy infrastructure.
- Contract Review: Analyzing standard contracts to be signed with utility companies.
- Energy Efficiency: Consulting on fulfilling obligations under energy efficiency legislation.
Common Situations When You Need a Lawyer
Dealing with utility companies is often complicated. You need a lawyer if:
- Unfounded Debt: The company charged you a substantial amount based on an "administrative act," claiming the meter was damaged, and you demand a recalculation.
- Connection Delay: You paid the connection fee, but the company delays connecting to the network in violation of statutory deadlines.
- Power Capacity Increase: Your enterprise needs to increase electricity capacity, which the company refuses due to technical reasons.
- Network Relocation: A high-voltage line or gas pipeline runs through your land plot, hindering construction, and you want to relocate it.
- Subscriber Registration: You cannot register as an individual subscriber in a newly built apartment block due to the developer's debt.
Georgian Legal Framework
The field is regulated by the Law of Georgia on Energy and Water Supply. GNERC resolutions are crucially important: "Rules for Supply and Consumption of Electricity," "Rules for Supply and Consumption of Natural Gas," and "Rules for Service Provision in Water Supply Sector." The Energy Ombudsman service also operates to protect consumer rights.
Process: How Collaboration with a Specialist Works
Collaboration involves:
- Documentation Review: Analysis of bills, acts, and contracts.
- Claim: Sending a written claim to the service company.
- Complaint: Filing a complaint with GNERC or the Energy Ombudsman if no result is achieved.
- Hearing: Participation in the public hearing and defending the position.
- Enforcement: Monitoring the enforcement of the Commission's decision.
Why Choose Legal.ge?
Energy law requires deep knowledge of technical regulations. Legal.ge connects you with lawyers who have years of experience dealing with GNERC and utility companies. We will help you protect your rights in relations with monopoly companies and save costs. Find a specialist on Legal.ge.
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