By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Hargeisa, 8 September 2026 Somaliland's Energy Regulatory Commission on Tuesday rejected an announcement by electricity companies that power tariffs would be increased, saying only it has authority to approve price changes.
The commission said it had seen a notice circulating on social media announcing an increase in electricity prices from September.
Speaking after an emergency meeting, Deputy Chairman Eid Saleban Ali said the announcement was unlawful and violated Somaliland's energy regulations.
He said the commission's responsibilities include enforcing energy laws, regulating electricity prices, protecting consumers and ensuring safe and orderly provision of electricity.
"The statement that electricity prices will be increased is illegal," Ali said, adding that no body other than the commission had authority to raise or lower tariffs.
The commission said it would refer the matter to the prosecutor for legal action against those responsible.
Chairman Abdi Cige Ahmed Good said the existing tariff remains in force and urged the public not to panic.
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"The price remains where it was. It has not been changed," Good said.
He said the commission had not been consulted about the notice and that it had not originated from the Somaliland administration.
Good said security and judicial authorities would investigate the source of the document and determine what action should be taken.
The dispute follows an announcement circulated by an association representing electricity companies, which cited rising operating costs and indicated power prices could be increased.
The regulator said electricity companies could not independently change tariffs and that any adjustment must go through the commission.
The commission also called on electricity companies to comply with regulations, while acknowledging financial pressures facing providers.
For now, consumers should continue paying the existing tariff and no new increase has been approved, the commission said.