Introduction

Cameroon's energy sector is governed by a complex regulatory framework covering oil and gas, mining, power and renewable energy. The sector is regulated by a number of government bodies, including the Ministry of Mines, Industry and Technological Development (MINMIDT) and the Electricity Sector Regulatory Agency (ARSEL).

This overview sets out the key legal and regulatory requirements for companies operating in Cameroon's energy sector, covering oil and gas, mining, power and renewable energy.

Oil and gas

The oil and gas sector in Cameroon is governed primarily by the Petroleum Code (Law No. 99/013 of 22 December 1999) and its implementing regulations. The sector is regulated by MINMIDT, with the state oil company SNH (Société Nationale des Hydrocarbures) playing a key role in the sector as a mandatory co-investor in all oil and gas projects.

Companies wishing to explore for or produce oil and gas in Cameroon must obtain a concession from the government, which is granted by presidential decree following a competitive tender process. The concession agreement sets out the terms and conditions for exploration and production, including the fiscal regime, local content requirements and environmental obligations.

Mining

The mining sector in Cameroon is governed by the Mining Code (Law No. 2016/017 of 14 December 2016) and its implementing regulations. Companies wishing to explore for or mine minerals in Cameroon must obtain a licence from MINMIDT, which is granted following a competitive tender process.

Power and renewable energy

The power sector in Cameroon is governed by the Electricity Law (Law No. 2011/022 of 14 December 2011) and its implementing regulations. The sector is regulated by ARSEL, which is responsible for licensing power producers, transmission companies and distribution companies.