An appraisal of the energy efficiency regulatory framework in Mauritius

Abstract

With the peak oil crisis looming ahead on one hand, and climate change consequences on the other, small island developing states (SIDS) will doubtless face challenges just as vulnerable economies relying heavily on imported fossil fuels will. In this context, Mauritius has no other option than to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels through energy efficiency and switch to renewable sources of energy while trying to mitigate climate change effects in its territories. Until 2007, Mauritian policies have been mostly oriented towards electricity generation without an overall energy efficiency coordinated plan to support the energy sector. Since then, local policy-makers can be said to have made substantial efforts to devise policies and laws to improve the use of energy; however, this recent framework is far from an ideal one. This article gives an overview of the Mauritian regulatory framework on energy and brings recommendations in view of an improved institutional and legal framework as well as a better management of energy sources and energy-related policies in the country.