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Licensing

Licensing & Authorisation Overview

The Utilities Regulatory Commission (URC) is the authoritative body responsible for issuing licences to entities involved in electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and supply within Seychelles. This licensing framework ensures that all operators adhere to established technical, financial, and environmental standards, aligning with the nation’s energy objectives.

Licence Exemptions

Not all electricity generation activities require a licence. Under Section 21 of the Electricity Act, 2023, certain individuals or entities may be exempted from the obligation to obtain a generation licence, provided specific conditions are met.

Who Is Exempt?

You do not need a generation licence if you fall into any of the following categories:

1
Backup Self-Generation

Generating electricity exclusively for own use when the main network cannot supply power (e.g. bad weather or other interruptions).

2
Small-Scale Self-Generation (≤ 500 kW)

Generating only for own consumption on your premises with capacity not exceeding 500 kW.

3
Off-Grid Generation

Generating for own use in an area not served by a licensed electricity network.

4
Generation with Sale to Grid (≤ 500 kW)

Generating for own use and selling excess to the network under a URC-approved net metering/billing scheme or formal agreement.

5
Research and Pilot Project

Generation as part of a URC-authorised research, development, or pilot project, or via a formal agreement with the network licensee.

Authorisation Still Required

Even if you qualify for an exemption, you must still apply for an authorisation from the URC. This process ensures your system meets technical, environmental, and safety standards before commencing operations.

How to Apply for a Licence

The licensing process ensures that only qualified and compliant entities are authorised by the Commission to operate within the electricity sector in accordance with national laws and standards.

1
Application Submission
Submit a completed licence application using the prescribed forms, along with all required supporting documents, such as:
  • Technical qualifications
  • Financial statements
  • Environmental compliance documents
2
Initial Screening
The Commission reviews the application for completeness and issues an acknowledgment of receipt to the applicant.
3
Detailed Evaluation
The Commission conducts a thorough review, including:
  • Technical Assessment – infrastructure, technology, and operational capability
  • Financial Assessment – solvency and financial sustainability
  • Regulatory Compliance – safety, environmental, and legal checks
4
Stakeholder Consultation
Where applicable, the Commission will:
  • Notify affected stakeholders (e.g., utilities, local authorities, public)
  • Collect feedback through notices or hearings
5
Site Visit or Inspection
The Commission may conduct on-site inspections to verify claims made in the application.
6
Decision Making
A licensing report is prepared based on all findings and submitted to the Board of Commissioners for a final decision.
7
Notification of Decision
The Commission will notify the applicant in writing with:
  • The approval or denial of the licence
  • Any conditions attached or reasons for rejection
8
Issuance of Licence
If approved, the licence is issued with:
  • Validity period
  • Terms and conditions for operation
9
Ongoing Monitoring
The Commission will implement periodic reporting and compliance audits to ensure the licensee adheres to all obligations.