The DES undertakes most of the functions of the sector authority, for example:
1. Advise the government/minister on policies and strategies relating to energy issues that are specific to power, and on matters pertaining to the regulatory body,
2. Advise the government/minister on matters relating to the generation, transmission, distribution, trading, retail, and use of electricity,
3. Exercise and enforce the Electricity Act, as well as regulations.
4. Address the interest of stakeholders and utilities with regards to:
The prices charged and other terms for the supply of electricity,
The security, reliability, availability and continuity of electricity supply,
The electricity services provided,
5. Promote the efficient use of electricity (potentially through demand side management),
6. Recommend a regulatory framework with respect to the generation, transmission, and possible import and export of electricity,
7. Protect the public from dangers arising from the generation, transmission, supply or use of electricity,
8. Coordinate various activities with regard to supply infrastructure planning (such as supply security & sufficiency) & implementation, efficiency..