The Policy Catalyst, a flagship initiative of GET.transform and implementing partners, provides integrated capacity building and implementation support to regulators and utilities in several countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The initiative’s first support window, the Policy Catalyst Distributed Generation Window, focuses on the integration of distributed generation (DG) into power systems.

Energynautics was contracted by GET.transform to support the analysis and implementation of technical regulations necessary for the adaptation of distributed generation. Activities included

• the development of grid code requirements for DG, such as frequency and voltage behavior or controllability requirements
• the design of connection criteria for the technical evaluation and fast-tracking of DG applications, as for example already existing in countries such as South Africa with the NRS 097-2-3 guideline or Rule 21 in California, USA
• assessments of the technical and economic impact of DG on the electricity generation mix of several countries

The various projects were carried out in close collaboration with Moeller & Poeller Engineering and DIgSILENT Buyisa.

In March 2025, the initiative reached an important milestone with the finalization of the interconnection requirements for DG installations across multiple sub-Saharan countries. In this context, Energynautics met with project partners and representatives from utilities, electricity regulators and energy ministries from Lesotho, Mozambique and Uganda during a workshop in Pretoria, South Africa.

Distributed Generation (DG) refers to electricity generation from small-scale systems that are connected to the distribution network – often from renewable sources such as rooftop solar on a customer’s premises. As DG deployment accelerates across Africa, so does the need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks and permitting processes.

The Policy Catalyst Distributed Generation Window is implemented by GET.transform and Sustainable Energy Africa (SEA) in partnership with the African Forum for Utility Regulators (AFUR) and the Association of Power Utilities of Africa (APUA). The initiative is currently carried out in Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, Madagascar, Mozambique and Uganda with plans to expand to four more countries in 2025: Liberia, Kenya, Senegal and Zimbabwe.

Addressing challenges related to frameworks, policies, procedures, and long-term strategies, the Policy Catalyst Distributed Generation Window helps regulators and utilities to advance the safe, compliant and financially viable integration of DG. Participants receive dedicated technical support, capacity building, and access to peer learning and networking.

Further information about GET.transform and the Policy Catalyst initiative can be found on the official website.