The National Energy Commission (NEC) was awarded two important international certifications by AENOR: ISO 37301, in Regulatory Compliance Management Systems, and ISO 37001, in Anti-Bribery Management Systems. These certifications reinforce compliance with Decree No. 36-21, which establishes the Regulatory Compliance Program in Public Procurement, as well as Decree No. 791-21 on Government Integrity and Regulatory Compliance Commissions.
“With these achievements, the institution reaffirms its commitment to transparency and institutionality, promoting a culture of zero tolerance towards bribery and illegality. This progress positions the NEC as a model of integrity and transparency in the energy sector, aligned with its values and organizational mission,” highlighted Edward Veras, executive director of the NEC.
Certification process
The road to these certifications required significant effort and commitment from the Executive Directorate and all areas of the NEC.
The process began with an initial assessment to identify specific needs and risks related to bribery and compliance. Senior management was actively involved in understanding the benefits of implementing an Integrated Anti-Bribery and Compliance Management System, which allowed for the participation of all employees in continuous improvement.
Clear policies and documented procedures were developed to prevent, detect and respond to bribery and compliance violations. In addition, mechanisms such as reporting channels (mailboxes, internal mail, QR codes, and internal digital communication), due diligence policies and training were established to promote a culture of compliance and zero tolerance to corruption.
As a result of this implementation, NEC has an Anti-Bribery Compliance and Management Committee that oversees the maintenance of the standards assumed and certified.
Importance of ISO Standards
ISO standards represent a set of international regulations designed to guarantee quality standards, delivery times, and service levels in various organizations. Developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO certifications are synonymous with operational excellence and establish a globally accepted framework of requirements and organizational endorsement.
CNE and its journey towards quality
Since the beginning of the current administration of President Luis Abinader, the NEC has made significant progress in terms of excellence and quality. During the 2020-2024 period, it has received several recognitions:
– January 2024: Special mention in the XXIV edition of the Ibero-American Quality Award, granted by the Ibero-American Foundation for Quality Management (FUNDIBEQ).
– 2022: Certification of the Quality Management System by AENOR Dominicana, in accordance with ISO 9001:2015, recognized by The International Certification Network (IGNET).
– 2021: Gold medal in the XVI edition of the National Quality Award.
– 2022: Silver Medal in the XVII edition of the National Quality Award for the Public Sector and Grand National Quality Award for the Dominican Public Sector in its XVIII edition.
About the NEC
The NEC, attached to the Ministry of Energy and Mines, is a decentralized public agency with its own assets. Its responsibilities include exercising the powers established in the General Electricity Law No. 125-01 and in the Law on Incentives for the Development of Renewable Energy Sources and their Special Regimes No. 57-07. The NEC is committed to strengthening its processes, services and relations with its stakeholders.
Source:presidencia.gob.do
