On April 18 the Kyrgyz parliament passed a bill that would make electrical energy a commodity instead of a service, reported Tazar.  According to the news source, this new classification would make electrical power subject to different regulatory mechanisms.  Deputies expressed concerns over the new law, saying that it does not adequately take the consumer’s rights and concerns into account, detailed Tazar.  Questions over who would bear the burden of responsibility during power outages and other times of crisis, as well who would guarantee the commodity’s quality were raised during the parliamentary session.  It was also noted that it would be easier to raise prices on a good than it would be on a service.  The remarks of the deputies were recorded into the law, reported Tazar, citing the parliament’s press agency.  

This information was originally published on April 18, 2008. (www.tazar.kg)