Regulators have a crucial role to play in the economy and society. They ensure that the provision of Utility services goes uninterrupted: clean water runs in our taps, the lights remain on, and that infrastructure development is unhindered. However, these lofty ideals may not be realized and therefore fail to deliver these public services if their activities are unduly influenced, whether by the regulated industry, government, politicians or outside interest groups. For example, an electricity tariff increase that is justified by the operator’s costs can be opposed by consumer groups or politicians wishing to make hay. Equally, the operator may lobby for higher prices, unnecessarily prioritising shareholders over consumers. This concept note will therefore endeavour to provide some insights and make a distinction between regulatory Independence and regulatory autonomy.  The concept note will further explore the meaning, significance, and differences between regulatory independence and regulatory autonomy.

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