Cabinet is considering a programme to develop new electricity generating capacity to meet the requirements of the country beyond 2007.

This includes the de-motballing of power plants.

In a statement by government spokesman Joel Netshitenzhe, cabinet said the programme would include making maximum use of interruptible load "and other demand side measures" and "returning to service some mothballed plants as and when the need arises and initiating competitive bidding for new generation".

In addition, cabinet resolved to implement measures aimed at eliminating poor management of some electricity distribution networks.

The cabinet also approved the Energy Regulator Bill which amends the Electricity Act, Gas Act and Petroleum Pipelines Bill to provide for the setting up of single National Energy Regulator.