5Director's functions and powers

5 Director's functions and powers

(1)  The functions of the Director are as follows:

(a) to assist the Minister in planning and co-ordinating the provision of energy in the State;

(b) to advise the Minister on all aspects of energy policy, including –

(i) the energy needs of the State and any factors which might put the supply of electrical energy at risk; and

(ii) ways of using energy and sources of energy, including renewable energy; and

(iii) the introduction and encouragement of competition in the energy industry; and

(iv) ways of achieving greater efficiency in the use of energy; and

(v) the use of energy policy to assist in achieving other policy objectives of the State;

(c) for the purposes of paragraphs (a) and (b) –

(i) to monitor the operation of the State's energy industry and its participants; and

(ii) to consult with interested groups and persons;

(d) to examine and monitor factors affecting the supply and demand for energy for the State;

(e) to co-ordinate activities to ensure that adequate arrangements are in place for the planning of the State's electrical system;

(f) to undertake, sponsor and co-ordinate research, development and demonstration relating to energy;

(g) to promote the development of commercial applications of renewable energy;

(h) to produce and publish information and reports on energy-related matters;

(i) to provide support in the resolution of disputes about energy-related matters.

(2)  In addition to any other powers conferred on the Director, the Director has power to do all things necessary or convenient to be done for or in connection with, or incidental to, the performance of the Director's functions.