A comprehensive composite analysis of regulatory governance and substance in the power sector for enhanced performance: A case study of a developing country

Khan, Noor Saleem, Iftikhar, Muhammad Zubair, Abbas Kazmi, Syed Ali, Ullah, Kafait, Imran, Kashif, Batool, Sadia, Alghamdi, Thamer A.H. and Alenezi, Mohammed 2026. A comprehensive composite analysis of regulatory governance and substance in the power sector for enhanced performance: A case study of a developing country. Energy Strategy Reviews 65 , 102231. 10.1016/j.esr.2026.102231

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Abstract

This study examines the interplay between regulatory governance (RG) and regulatory substance (RS) of the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) and their impacts on electricity sector outcomes (ESOs) in a developing country context. Employing a conceptual framework developed by Jarvis and Sovacool (2011), primary data from 209 power sector experts’ perceptions were analyzed via descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression (MLR). Key findings reveal that the majority of RG and RS attributes show limited ESO impact due to external factors, while some RS attributes (e.g., Equity (RS10) and Investment (RS9)) have broader positive effects. Further, despite strengths in transparency, weaknesses in predictability and legitimacy persist. To ensure long-term sustainability in the power sector of a developing country, this study recommends that the factors of enhancing regulatory autonomy, inclusive engagement of stakeholders, and implementing non-regulatory reforms must be considered while formulating future policy and regulatory frameworks, which is aligned with the sustainability goals as envisaged in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7, 9, and 11.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Engineering
Publisher:	Elsevier BV
ISSN:	2211-467X
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	20 April 2026
Date of Acceptance:	26 March 2026
Last Modified:	20 Apr 2026 12:00
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/186486

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