,,ii #aacth ,,congress #b;d ,session ,s4 #bejh ,,in ,,the ,,senate ,,of ,,the ,,united ,,states ,june #ai1 #bjad ,mr4 ,menendez 7for himself1 ,mr4 ,corker1 ,mr4 ,coons1 ,mr4 ,isakson1 ,mr4 ,markey1 and ,mr4 ,johanns7 introduced the following bill2 which was read twice and referred to the ,committee on ,foreign ,relations ,a ,,bill ,to establish a comprehensive ,united ,states ,government policy to assist countries in sub-,saharan ,africa to improve access to and the affordability1 reliability1 and sustainability of power1 and for other purposes4 #a4 ,short title2 table of contents 7a7 ,short title ,this ,act may be cited as the ,energize ,africa ,act of #bjad4 7b7 ,table of contents ,the table of contents for this ,act is as follows3 ,sec4 #a4 ,short title2 table of contents4 ,sec4 #b4 ,findings4 ,,title ,i--,policies to improve access to power in sub-,saharan ,africa ,sec4 #aja4 ,purpose4 ,sec4 #ajb4 ,statement of policy4 ,sec4 #ajc4 ,development of comprehensive1 multiyear strategy4 ,sec4 #ajd4 ,sense of ,congress on priorities with respect the energy sector of sub-,saharan ,african countries4 ,sec4 #aje4 ,prioritization of assistance for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa by the ,united ,states ,agency for ,international ,development4 ,sec4 #ajf4 ,prioritization of assistance for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa by the ,trade and ,development ,agency4 ,sec4 #ajg4 ,prioritization of assistance for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa by the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation4 ,sec4 #ajh4 ,prioritization of assistance for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa by the ,world ,bank ,group and the ,african ,development ,bank4 ,sec4 #aji4 ,prioritization of assistance for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa by the ,united ,states ,african ,development ,foundation4 ,sec4 #aaj4 ,progress report4 ,,title ,,ii--,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation ,sec4 #bja4 ,extension of issuing authority4 ,sec4 #bjb4 ,expedited procedures for financing of small projects related to power generation and distribution in sub-,saharan ,africa4 ,sec4 #bjc4 ,activities in sub-,saharan ,africa2 investment advisory council4 ,sec4 #bjd4 ,pilot program for expansion of eligible investors4 ,sec4 #bje4 ,pilot program for direct investment and local currency guaranties for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa4 ,sec4 #bjf4 ,extension of maximum term of obligation for renewable energy projects in sub-,saharan ,africa4 ,sec4 #bjg4 ,inspector ,general4 ,sec4 #bjh4 ,assessment of customer satisfaction4 ,sec4 #bji4 ,schedule ,b hiring authority4 ,sec4 #baj4 ,sense of ,congress on funding4 ,sec4 #baa4 ,report on equity authority4 #b4 ,findings ,congress makes the following findings3 7#a7 ,as of #bjaj1 approximately #ehi1jjj1jjj people in sub-,saharan ,africa1 or #fh percent of the population1 did not have access to power4 7#b7 ,lack of access to power services disproportionally affects women1 who often shoulder the burden of seeking sources of heat and light such as dung1 wood1 or charcoal and are often more exposed to the associated negative health effects4 7#c7 ,women and girls also face increased risks of assault from walking long distances to gather fuel sources4 7#d7 ,access to power creates opportunities for people to work their way out of poverty1 including through entrepreneurship4 7#e7 ,a lack of power contributes to the high use of inefficient and often highly polluting fuel sources for indoor cooking1 heating1 and lighting that produce toxic fumes resulting in more than #c1jjj1jjj annual premature deaths from respiratory disease4 7#f7 ,reliable access to power is crucial for the storage of vaccines and antiretroviral and other lifesaving medical drugs1 as well as for the operation of modern lifesaving medical equipment4 7#g7 ,access to power can be used to improve food security by enabling post-harvest processing1 pumping1 irrigation1 dry grain storage1 milling1 and refrigeration1 and for other uses4 7#h7 ,access to power can provide improved information and communication technologies that can greatly improve health and education outcomes as well as economic and commercial opportunities4 7#i7 ,for the majority of people with access to power in sub-,saharan ,africa1 power services are highly unreliable and remain at least twice as expensive compared to other emerging regions4 7#aj7 ,according to ,enterprise ,surveys of the ,world ,bank1 power cuts in sub-,saharan ,africa cost companies more than #aj percent of sales in certain countries4 7#aa7 ,the consumer base in sub-,saharan ,africa of approximately #a1jjj1jjj1jjj people is rapidly growing and will create increasing demand for ,united ,states goods1 services1 and technologies1 but the current power deficit in sub-,saharan ,africa limits that growth in demand by restricting economic growth on the continent of ,africa4 7#ab7 ,approximately #cj countries in sub-,saharan ,africa face endemic power shortages1 and nearly #gj percent of surveyed businesses in sub-,saharan ,africa cite unreliable power as a major constraint to growth4 7#ac7 ,the work of the ,millennium ,challenge ,corporation in the energy sector shows high projected economic rates of returns that translate to sustainable economic growth and the highest returns are projected when infrastructure improvements are coupled with significant legislative1 policy1 and regulatory reforms and institutional strengthening4 7#ad7 ,sub-,saharan ,africa has abundant renewable and fossil fuel resources with which to generate power4 7#ae7 ,in some countries in sub-,saharan ,africa1 weak governance capacity1 undue regulatory barriers1 and unnecessary legal constraints1 as well as a lack of transparency and accountability1 stifle the ability of public and private investment to assist in the generation and distribution of power4 7#af7 ,without new policies and more effective public and private investments in power sector enterprises to increase and expand access to power in sub-,saharan ,africa1 more than #gj percent of the rural population1 and #dh percent of the total population1 are likely to remain without access to power through at least #bjcj4 7#ag7 ,consumers in sub-,saharan ,africa spend billions of dollars annually on kerosene and other fuels for household needs1 which can1 for poor families1 represent more than #ae percent of household income and can expose residents to significant fire and toxicity risks4 7#ah7 ,kerosene lamps used in homes can cause fires and severe burn injuries and expose users to hazardous air pollutants in close quarters1 and switching from fuel-based lighting to cheaper1 cleaner systems would provide higher quality light with no negative health effects while achieving significant economic savings4 7#ai7 ,new technological advances in power generation coupled with more efficient appliances are resulting in robust1 affordable1 and non-polluting off-grid power solutions and entrepreneurs are developing new business models allowing off-grid households to finance systems over time1 resulting in a rapidly growing off-grid power market4 ,i ,policies to improve access to power in sub-,saharan ,africa #aja4 ,purpose ,the purpose of this title is to assist countries in sub-,saharan ,africa to improve access to affordable and reliable power in order to unlock the potential for economic growth and promote development1 job creation1 food security1 improved health1 educational1 and environmental outcomes1 and reduce poverty4 #ajb4 ,statement of policy ,congress declares that it is the policy of the ,united ,states to partner1 consult1 and coordinate with the governments of sub-,saharan ,african countries1 international financial institutions1 ,african regional economic communities1 and the private sector1 in a concerted effort to-- 7#a7 promote first-time access to power and power services for at least #ej1jjj1jjj people in sub-,saharan ,africa by #bjbj in both urban and rural areas2 7#b7 encourage the installation of at least #bj1jjj additional megawatts of electrical power in sub-,saharan ,africa by #bjbj using a broad mix of energy options to help reduce poverty1 promote sustainable development1 and drive economic growth2 7#c7 promote reliable1 affordable1 and sustainable power in urban areas 7including small urban areas7 to promote economic growth and job creation2 7#d7 promote efficient institutional platforms and financing to provide electrical service to rural and underserved populations2 7#e7 encourage the necessary in-country reforms to make such expansion of power access possible2 7#f7 promote reforms of power production1 delivery1 and pricing1 as well as regulatory reforms and transparency1 to support long-term1 market-based power generation and distribution2 and 7#g7 promote policies to displace kerosene lighting with other technologies4 #ajc4 ,development of comprehensive1 multiyear strategy 7a7 ,strategy required 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,president shall establish a comprehensive1 integrated1 multiyear strategy to assist countries in sub-,saharan ,africa to implement national power strategies and develop an appropriate mix of power solutions1 including renewable energy1 to provide access to sufficient reliable1 affordable1 and sustainable power in order to reduce poverty and drive economic growth and job creation4 7#b7 ,flexibility and responsiveness ,the ,president shall ensure that the strategy required by paragraph 7#a7 maintains sufficient flexibility for and remains responsive to technological innovation in the power sector4 7b7 ,report required ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,president shall submit to the ,committee on ,foreign ,relations of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,foreign ,affairs of the ,house of ,representatives a report that contains the strategy required by subsection 7a7 and includes a discussion of the following elements3 7#a7 ,the general and specific objectives of the strategy4 7#b7 ,the criteria for determining the success of the strategy4 7#c7 ,a description of the manner in which the strategy will support efforts of countries receiving assistance pursuant to the strategy to improve access to power using a broad mix of energy options and improve the affordability and reliability of power in sub-,saharan ,africa4 7#d7 ,a general description of regional and country plans and significant local efforts1 as appropriate1 in sub-,saharan ,africa to-- 7,a7 increase power production2 7,b7 strengthen electrical transmission and distribution infrastructure2 7,c7 provide for regulatory reform and transparent and accountable governance and oversight2 7,d7 improve the reliability of power2 7,e7 maintain the affordability of power2 7,f7 maximize the financial sustainability of the power sector2 and 7,g7 improve access to power4 7#e7 ,a description of plans to support efforts of countries receiving assistance pursuant to the strategy to increase access to power in urban and rural areas1 including a description of plans designed to address commercial1 industrial1 and residential needs4 7#f7 ,a description of plans to support efforts of such countries to reduce waste and corruption and improve existing power generation through the use of a broad power mix1 including fossil fuel and renewable energy1 distributed generation models1 and other technological innovations1 as appropriate4 7#g7 ,an analysis of existing mechanisms for ensuring1 and recommendations to promote-- 7,a7 commercial cost recovery in countries receiving assistance pursuant to the strategy2 7,b7 commercialization of electric service through distribution service providers to consumers2 7,c7 improvements in revenue cycle management1 power pricing1 and fees assessed for service contracts and connections2 7,d7 reductions in technical losses in the transmission systems and commercial losses resulting from inefficiencies1 including inefficiencies in the billing and collection cycle1 theft1 and manipulation of meter reading and billing systems2 and 7,e7 access to power1 including recommendations on the creation of new service provider models that mobilize community participation in the provision of power services4 7#h7 ,a description of ,united ,states ,government efforts to support the efforts of countries receiving assistance pursuant to the strategy to leverage private sector resources and public sector financing pursuant to the strategy4 7#i7 ,a description of the reforms being undertaken or planned by countries in sub-,saharan ,africa to ensure the long-term economic viability of power projects and to increase access to power1 including-- 7,a7 reforms designed to allow third parties to connect power generation to the grid affordably1 quickly1 and without undue regulatory burdens2 7,b7 policies to ensure there is a viable1 adequately resourced1 independent1 and capable utility regulator2 7,c7 strategies to ensure utilities become or remain creditworthy2 7,d7 regulations that permit the participation of independent power producers and private-public partnerships2 7,e7 policies that encourage private investment in power generation2 7,f7 policies that ensure compensation for power provided to the electrical grid by on-site producers2 7,g7 policies to unbundle power services2 and 7,h7 regulations to eliminate conflicts of interest in the utility sector4 7#aj7 ,a description of plans to ensure-- 7,a7 local consultation1 as appropriate1 in the planning1 long-term maintenance1 and management of investments designed to increase access to power in sub-,saharan ,africa2 and 7,b7 that such investments are sustainable and transparent1 including through the provision of technical assistance and training4 7#aa7 ,an identification of the relevant ,united ,states ,government departments and agencies that will be involved in carrying out the strategy4 7#ab7 ,a description of the level and distribution of resources that will be dedicated on an annual basis among those departments and agencies4 7#ac7 ,a description of the role of each such department or agency and the types of programs that each such department or agency will conduct4 7#ad7 ,a description of the mechanisms that will be used to coordinate the efforts of ,united ,states ,government departments and agencies in carrying out the strategy to avoid duplication of efforts1 enhance coordination1 and ensure that each such department or agency conducts programs primarily in the areas in which that department or agency has the greatest expertise1 technical capabilities1 and potential for success4 7#ae7 ,a description of the mechanisms to be established for-- 7,a7 monitoring and evaluating increased access to1 and reliability and affordability of1 power in sub-,saharan ,africa for individuals1 communities1 and businesses2 7,b7 maximizing the financial sustainability of power generation1 transmission1 and distribution in sub-,saharan ,africa2 7,c7 sharing best practices among relevant ,united ,states ,government departments and agencies and with other countries and institutions participating in efforts to increase access to power in sub-,saharan ,africa2 7,d7 establishing metrics to demonstrate progress on meeting goals relating to access to power1 power generation1 and distribution in sub-,saharan ,africa2 and 7,e7 terminating unsuccessful programs4 7#af7 ,a description of the engagement plan for working with local communities benefitting from or affected by projects carried out pursuant to the strategy4 7#ag7 ,a description of the mechanisms that will be used to ensure greater coordination between the ,united ,states and foreign governments1 international organizations1 ,african regional economic communities1 international financial institutions1 international fora such as the ,g-#h and ,g-#bj1 and private sector and civil society organizations4 7#ah7 ,an outline of how the ,president intends to partner with foreign governments1 the ,world ,bank ,group1 the ,african ,development ,bank1 the private sector1 and other development partners to assist sub-,saharan ,african countries to conduct project studies and facilitate project development4 7#ai7 ,a description of how the ,president intends to help facilitate transnational and regional electrification projects where appropriate4 7#bj7 ,a description of how the ,president intends to help sub-,saharan countries use new or potential fossil fuel and other resources in order to provide power to their citizens4 7#ba7 ,a description of how the ,president intends to promote trade in electrical equipment with countries in sub-,saharan ,africa1 including a description of how the government of each country receiving assistance pursuant to the strategy-- 7,a7 plans to lower or eliminate import tariffs or other taxes for energy and other power production and distribution technologies destined for sub-,saharan ,africa1 including equipment used to provide energy access1 including solar lanterns1 solar home systems1 and micro and mini grids2 and 7,b7 plans to protect the intellectual property of companies designing and manufacturing products that can be used to provide energy access in sub-,saharan ,africa4 7#bb7 ,a description of how the ,president intends to work with the ,african ,development ,bank and other partners to increase the capacity of sub-,saharan ,african utilities to-- 7,a7 develop standardized power purchase agreements and other contracts to streamline project development2 and 7,b7 negotiate and monitor compliance with power purchase agreements and other contracts entered into with the private sector4 7#bc7 ,a description of how the ,president intends to encourage the growth of distributed renewable energy markets in sub-,saharan ,africa1 including off-grid lighting and power1 that includes-- 7,a7 a country-by-country analysis of the state of distributed renewable energy in sub-,saharan ,africa1 including off-grid lighting and power2 7,b7 a description of market barriers to the deployment of distributed renewable energy technologies both on- and off-grid in sub-,saharan ,africa2 7,c7 measures ,united ,states ,government departments and agencies1 including the ,united ,states ,agency for ,international ,development and the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation1 can take-- 7i7 to overcome or eliminate market barriers or enhance financing opportunities for distributed renewable energy solutions in sub-,saharan ,africa2 and 7ii7 to assist multilateral organizations such as the ,world ,bank ,group in efforts to eliminate such barriers or enhance such opportunities2 7,d7 the amount and kind of financial support and financing provided to participants in distributed energy markets by the ,united ,states ,government1 international financial institutions1 and other international organizations2 7,e7 an analysis of the efficacy of efforts by the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation and the ,united ,states ,agency for ,international ,development to facilitate the financing of the importation1 distribution1 sale1 leasing1 or marketing of distributed renewable energy technologies2 and 7,f7 a description of how bolstering distributed renewable energy can enhance the overall effort to increase power access in sub-,saharan ,africa4 7#bd7 ,any other issues the ,president determines are relevant to the strategy4 7c7 ,african power advisory group 7#a7 ,establishment ,for the purposes of developing the strategy required by subsection 7a71 the ,president shall establish an ,african ,power ,advisory ,group to advise on the development and implementation of the strategy and report required by this section and assistance provided pursuant to this section4 7#b7 ,membership ,the ,african ,power ,advisory ,group shall be composed of #ab members appointed by the ,president1 including the following3 7,a7 ,the ,coordinator of the ,president's ,power ,africa ,initiative4 7,b7 ,seven individuals from the power sector1 of whom-- 7i7 at least one shall have experience in the fossil fuel power sector2 7ii7 at least one shall have experience with the rural electrical cooperatives2 7iii7 at least one shall have experience in the renewable energy sector2 and 7iv7 at least one shall have experience in the distributed generation sector4 7,c7 ,three individuals1 other than individuals described in subparagraph 7,b71 who shall have experience in working with the business community in ,africa or with governments of countries in ,africa4 7,d7 ,one individual who shall have experience with utility regulation4 7#c7 ,functions ,the ,president shall call upon members of the ,african ,power ,advisory ,group1 either collectively or individually1 to advise the ,president regarding the development and implementation of the strategy and report required by this section and assistance provided pursuant to this section4 7#d7 ,meetings ,the ,african ,power ,advisory ,group shall meet not later than #fj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act and not less frequently than annually thereafter4 7#e7 ,federal advisory committee act ,the ,african ,power ,advisory ,group established under this section shall not be subject to the ,federal ,advisory ,committee ,act 7#e ,u4,s4,c4 ,app474 #ajd4 ,sense of ,congress on priorities with respect the energy sector of sub-,saharan ,african countries ,it is the sense of ,congress that-- 7#a7 as the ,united ,states deepens its engagement with countries in sub-,saharan ,africa pursuant to the authorities provided under this ,act1 priority should be given to countries with a demonstrated commitment to-- 7,a7 transparency1 accountability1 and credibility in energy sector governance2 7,b7 prudent macroeconomic management of energy resources1 including sound fiscal and debt management2 7,c7 energy sector reforms1 including tariff reform1 unbundling of vertically integrated utilities1 and access for independent power producers2 7,d7 responsible development of newly discovered energy resources2 7,e7 expansion of power generation1 transmission1 and access1 including distributed mini-grid and off-grid solutions2 and 7,f7 private sector and investment climate reforms1 such as strong rule of law and robust controls over the business regulatory environment2 and 7#b7 the ,united ,states should consider1 in prioritizing efforts carried out pursuant to this ,act-- 7,a7 opportunities for the ,united ,states private sector to contribute to the energy sector in sub-,saharan ,african countries through technology1 innovation1 and project development2 7,b7 the potential of such efforts to facilitate regional power trade and expand power access across borders2 7,c7 private sector interest and participation in the energy sector of sub-,saharan ,african countries2 7,d7 the long-term financial viability of energy sector projects in development2 7,e7 opportunities to collaborate with international donors and partners in energy sector development involving multilateral institutions such as the ,world ,bank ,group and the ,african ,development ,bank2 7,f7 the availability of ,united ,states ,government resources and appropriate funds to support the expansion of technical assistance1 delivery units1 and transaction advisors and teams to implement ,united ,states ,government programs to expand power access in sub-,saharan ,africa2 and 7,g7 mechanisms to promote efficient and effective coordination among ,united ,states ,government departments and agencies1 including allocation of well-defined roles for each such department or agency4 #aje4 ,prioritization of assistance for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa by the ,united ,states ,agency for ,international ,development 7a7 ,loan guarantees ,in pursuing the policy goals described in section #ajb1 the ,administrator of the ,united ,states ,agency for ,international ,development should prioritize loan guarantees to local financial institutions in sub-,saharan ,africa1 as appropriate1 to-- 7#a7 facilitate the involvement of such institutions in power projects and markets1 both on- and off-grid1 in sub-,saharan ,africa2 7#b7 allow such institutions to partner with other investors to leverage expertise and increase the impact of such loan guarantees for energy access and power production projects in sub-,saharan ,africa2 7#c7 allow such institutions to partner with other investors to fund local research1 development1 and deployment of technology in order to specifically increase access to reliable1 affordable1 and sustainable power in sub-,saharan ,africa2 and 7#d7 allow such institutions to fund the development of plans to increase distribution coverage1 including off-grid projects and services in rural areas of sub-,saharan ,africa4 7b7 ,grants ,the ,administrator shall prioritize assistance to-- 7#a7 support the implementation or development1 as appropriate1 of national1 regional1 and local energy and economically sustainable power policy plans in sub-,saharan ,africa2 7#b7 expand power access across sub-,saharan ,africa1 including specifically to the poorest populations and rural and isolated communities2 7#c7 build the capacity of countries in sub-,saharan ,africa to monitor and appropriately and transparently regulate the power sector and encourage private investment in power production and distribution2 and 7#d7 increase access to reliable1 affordable1 and sustainable power in sub-,saharan ,africa1 including the development of plans to increase power access in rural areas4 7c7 ,effectiveness measurement ,in providing the loan guarantees and assistance prioritized pursuant to this section1 the ,administrator shall use clear1 accountable1 and metric-based targets to measure the effectiveness of such guarantees and assistance in achieving the goals described in section #ajb4 7d7 ,rule of construction ,nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize modifying or limiting the portfolio of the ,united ,states ,agency for ,international ,development in other developing regions4 #ajf4 ,prioritization of assistance for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa by the ,trade and ,development ,agency 7a7 ,in general ,the ,director of the ,trade and ,development ,agency should prioritize1 as appropriate-- 7#a7 the promotion of ,united ,states private sector participation in energy sector development projects in sub-,saharan ,africa by conducting project preparation activities for projects in sub-,saharan ,africa1 including feasibility studies1 technical assistance1 pilot projects1 reverse trade missions1 conferences1 and workshops2 and 7#b7 the funding of project preparation activities for projects in sub-,saharan ,africa that involve increased access to power1 including power generation and trade capacity building4 7b7 ,focus ,the project preparation activities described in subsection 7a7 should focus on supporting projects in sub-,saharan ,africa that enhance efficiencies in the areas of power generation1 transmission1 and distribution grids1 including on-grid1 off-grid1 and micro-grid solutions1 and best practices in demand-side management4 7c7 ,rule of construction ,nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize modifying or limiting the portfolio of the ,trade and ,development ,agency in other developing regions4 #ajg4 ,prioritization of assistance for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa by the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation 7a7 ,in general ,the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation should1 as appropriate-- 7#a7 prioritize support for private sector investments in the power sector of sub-,saharan ,africa1 including in renewable energy1 that will-- 7,a7 maximize the number of people with new access to power and power services2 7,b7 improve and expand the transmission and distribution of power and off-grid lighting and power solutions2 7,c7 provide reliable power to people and businesses in urban and rural communities2 7,d7 address the energy needs of people living in areas where there is little or no access to a power grid2 7,e7 reduce transmission and distribution losses and improve end-use efficiency and demand-side management2 and 7,f7 reduce energy-related impediments to business productivity and investment2 7#b7 implement procedures for expedited review of and1 where appropriate1 approval of1 applications by eligible investors 7as defined in section #bch of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baih77 for loans1 loan guarantees1 and insurance for such investments2 7#c7 encourage small- and medium-sized enterprises and cooperative service providers to participate in energy investment activities in sub-,saharan ,africa2 and 7#d7 publish information on the effects of its energy investments on development in sub-,saharan ,africa4 7b7 ,rule of construction ,nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize modifying or limiting the portfolio of the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation in other developing regions4 #ajh4 ,prioritization of assistance for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa by the ,world ,bank ,group and the ,african ,development ,bank 7a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary of the ,treasury should direct the ,united ,states ,executive ,directors of the ,world ,bank ,group and the ,african ,development ,bank to1 as appropriate1 use the voice1 vote1 and influence of the ,united ,states to help ensure the ,world ,bank ,group and the ,african ,development ,bank-- 7#a7 prioritize-- 7,a7 increasing their investment in1 and efforts to promote investment in1 well-designed power sector and electrification projects in sub-,saharan ,africa2 7,b7 creating financing opportunities1 provide financing1 and provide technical assistance to promote both on- and off-grid power and lighting solutions in sub-,saharan ,africa2 7,c7 stimulating private investment in reliable1 affordable1 and sustainable power in sub-,saharan ,africa2 and 7,d7 providing technical assistance to the regulatory authorities of governments in sub-,saharan ,africa to-- 7i7 remove unnecessary regulatory and legal barriers to investment in commercially viable power projects and markets2 7ii7 modify regulatory and legal regimes to assist providers in reducing power transmission and distribution technical losses2 7iii7 implement cost-based power tariffs and provide for commercial cost recovery2 7iv7 encourage end-use efficiency and demand-side management in the power sector2 7v7 strengthen local power markets2 7vi7 reduce corruption in the power industry1 including in government and regulatory processes associated with power production and distribution2 7vii7 encourage domestic investment in the power sector2 7viii7 improve transparency and good governance with respect to regulatory and legal processes and requirements in the power sector2 7ix7 encourage affordable and expedited interconnection for distributed energy systems and independent power producers2 7x7 ensure compliance with the best practices of the ,world ,bank ,group and the ,african ,development ,bank2 and 7xi7 implement regulatory and legal reforms that facilitate efficient power generation1 transmission1 and distribution and efficient off-grid energy markets2 7#b7 use clear1 accountable1 and metric-based targets to measure the effectiveness of investment and other assistance provided by the ,world ,bank ,group or the ,african ,development ,bank1 as the case may be1 for power sector and electrification projects in sub-,saharan ,africa2 and 7#c7 support the efforts of the ,world ,bank ,group to foster growth in the off-grid lighting and power markets4 7b7 ,rule of construction ,nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize the ,secretary of the ,treasury to advocate for modifying or limiting the portfolio of the ,world ,bank ,group or the ,african ,development ,bank in other developing regions4 #aji4 ,prioritization of assistance for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa by the ,united ,states ,african ,development ,foundation 7a7 ,in general ,the ,board of ,directors and the ,president of the ,united ,states ,african ,development ,foundation should seek opportunities to make grants and provide technical support to businesses and organizations in sub-,saharan ,africa that qualify for assistance from the ,foundation and are developing on- and off-grid solutions to meet the power needs of rural communities underserved by national grids4 7b7 ,focus ,the mission of the ,united ,states ,african ,development ,foundation under subsection 7a7 is to meet the needs of underserved communities and close critical development gaps with speed1 efficiency1 and effectiveness4 #aaj4 ,progress report 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #c years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,president shall submit to the ,committee on ,foreign ,relations of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,foreign ,affairs of the ,house of ,representatives a report on progress made toward achieving the policy goals described in section #ajb that includes the following3 7#a7 ,a report on ,united ,states programs supporting implementation of policy and legislative changes leading to increased power generation and access in sub-,saharan ,africa1 including a description of the number1 type1 and status of policy1 regulatory1 and legislative changes initiated or implemented as a result of programs funded or supported by the ,united ,states in countries in sub-,saharan ,africa to support increased power generation and access after the date of the enactment of this ,act4 7#b7 ,a description of power projects receiving ,united ,states ,government support and how such projects1 including off-grid efforts1 are intended to achieve the policy goals described in section #ajb4 7#c7 ,for each project described in paragraph 7#b7-- 7,a7 a description of how the project fits into1 or encourages modifications of1 the national energy plan of the country in which the project will be carried out1 including encouraging regulatory reform in that country2 7,b7 an estimate of the total cost of the project to the consumer1 the country in which the project will be carried out1 and other investors2 7,c7 the amount of financing provided or guaranteed by the ,united ,states ,government for the project2 7,d7 an estimate of ,united ,states ,government resources for the project1 itemized by funding source1 including from the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation1 the ,united ,states ,agency for ,international ,development1 the ,department of the ,treasury1 or other appropriate ,united ,states ,government departments and agencies2 7,e7 an estimate of the number of individuals1 communities1 businesses1 schools1 and health facilities that have gained power connections as a result of the project1 with a description of how the reliability1 affordability1 and sustainability of power has been improved as of the date of the report2 and 7,f7 an assessment of the increase in the number of people and businesses with access to power and in the operating electrical power capacity in megawatts as a result of the project between the date of the enactment of this ,act and the date of the report4 7#d7 ,a description of any significant estimated non-economic effects of the efforts carried out pursuant to this ,act4 ,,ii ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation #bja4 ,extension of issuing authority ,section #bce7;a77#b7 of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baie7;a77#b77 is amended by striking #bjjg and inserting #bjai4 #bjb4 ,expedited procedures for financing of small projects related to power generation and distribution in sub-,saharan ,africa 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation should1 as appropriate1 simplify and streamline the application1 approval1 and post-approval processes for insurance1 financing1 investment1 or reinsurance for projects or subprojects1 including off-grid efforts1 in sub-,saharan ,africa for which the total support of the ,corporation is less than #bj1jjj1jjj1 by-- 7#a7 expediting the review and consideration of1 and determinations with respect to1 applications for insurance1 financing1 investment1 or reinsurance1 consistent with investment best practices1 including appropriate risk management1 for such projects and subprojects2 and 7#b7 reducing the burdens of project management for1 and eliminating duplicative or unnecessary oversight of such projects and subprojects after approval of insurance1 financing1 investment1 or reinsurance for projects or subprojects4 7b7 ,consideration of best practices ,in revising its procedures as required by subsection 7a71 the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation should consider best practices established by the ,international ,finance ,corporation of the ,world ,bank ,group4 #bjc4 ,activities in sub-,saharan ,africa2 investment advisory council ,section #bcc7;e7 of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baic7;e77 is amended to read as follows3 7e7 ,activities in sub-,saharan ,africa2 investment advisory council 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,board should take prompt measures to prioritize1 as appropriate1 the loan1 guarantee1 and insurance programs1 and financial commitments1 of the ,corporation in sub-,saharan ,africa in the areas of power generation1 distribution1 and off-grid power and lighting1 including through the use of an investment advisory council to assist the ,board in developing and implementing policies1 programs1 and financial instruments with respect to sub-,saharan ,africa4 7#b7 ,recommendations ,the investment advisory council described in paragraph 7#a7 shall make recommendations to the ,board on how the ,corporation can facilitate greater support by the ,united ,states for private sector trade and investment with and in sub-,saharan ,africa4 7#c7 ,termination ,the investment advisory council described in paragraph 7#a7 shall terminate on ,december #ca1 #bjah4 7#d7 ,applicability of federal advisory committee act ,the investment advisory council described in paragraph 7#a7 shall not be subject to the ,federal ,advisory ,committee ,act 7#e ,u4,s4,c4 ,app474 4 #bjd4 ,pilot program for expansion of eligible investors 7a7 ,in general ,the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation shall conduct a pilot program under which entities that are covered by section #bch7;c77#c7 of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baih7;c77#c77 and are substantially beneficially owned by ,united ,states citizens shall be considered eligible investors under section #bch7;c7 of that ,act for the sole purpose of receiving assistance from the ,corporation for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa4 7b7 ,cap on assistance ,assistance provided by the ,corporation for a power project in sub-,saharan ,africa pursuant to subsection 7a7 to an entity that is covered by section #bch7;c77#c7 of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baih7;c77#c77 and is substantially beneficially owned by ,united ,states citizens shall not exceed the lesser of-- 7#a7 the share of ownership in the entity of such ,united ,states citizens2 or 7#b7 the percentage of the investment of the entity in the project4 7c7 ,termination of pilot program ,the pilot program under subsection 7a7 shall terminate on the date that is #e years after the date of the enactment of this ,act4 7d7 ,continued validity of existing support ,notwithstanding subsection 7c71 any support provided before the date that is #e years after the date of the enactment of this ,act pursuant to the pilot program under subsection 7a7 shall remain valid on and after that date4 #bje4 ,pilot program for direct investment and local currency guaranties for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa 7a7 ,in general ,the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation shall conduct a pilot program to-- 7#a7 make loans to eligible investors under section #bcd7;c7 of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baid7;c77 for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa and for which the total support of the ,corporation does not exceed #ej1jjj1jjj2 and 7#b7 issue local currency guarantees under section #bcd7;h7 of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baid7;h77 to ,african subsidiaries of foreign financial institutions if the issuance of such guarantees directly facilitates lending for power projects in sub-,saharan ,africa undertaken by eligible investors4 7b7 ,eligible investor defined ,in this section1 the term eligible investor means an eligible investor as defined in section #bch7;c7 of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baih7;c77 or described in section #bjd7;a7 of this ,act4 7c7 ,termination of pilot program ,the pilot program under subsection 7a7 shall terminate on the date that is #e years after the date of the enactment of this ,act4 7d7 ,continued validity of existing loans and guarantees ,notwithstanding subsection 7c71 any loans made or local currency guarantees issued pursuant to the pilot program under subsection 7a7 before the date that is #e years after the date of the enactment of this ,act shall remain valid on and after that date4 #bjf4 ,extension of maximum term of obligation for renewable energy projects in sub-,saharan ,africa ,section #bcg7;e7 of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baig7;e77 is amended to read as follows3 7e7 ,maximum term of obligation 7#a7 ,in general ,except as provided in paragraph 7#b71 no insurance1 guaranty1 or reinsurance of any equity investment shall extend beyond #bj years after the date of issuance4 7#b7 ,extended term of obligation for certain projects ,an insurance1 guaranty1 or reinsurance of an equity investment in a renewable energy project in sub-,saharan ,africa may extend up to #cj years after the date of issuance4 4 #bjg4 ,inspector ,general 7a7 ,in general ,section #h;,g7a7 of the ,inspector ,general ,act of #aigh 7#e ,u4,s4,c4 ,app47 is amended-- 7#a7 in paragraph 7#b71 by inserting the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation1 after the ,national ,science ,foundation12 and 7#b7 in paragraph 7#d7-- 7,a7 in subparagraph 7,g71 by striking 2 and and inserting a semicolon2 7,b7 in subparagraph 7,h71 by inserting and after the semicolon2 and 7,c7 by adding at the end the following3 7,i7 with respect to the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation1 such term means the ,board of ,directors of the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation 7established under section #bcc7;b7 of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baic7;b7772 4 7b7 ,conforming amendment ,section #bci of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baii7 is amended by striking subsection 7e74 #bjh4 ,assessment of customer satisfaction ,section #bci of the ,foreign ,assistance ,act of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baii7 is amended by adding at the end the following3 7l7 ,assessment of customer satisfaction 7#a7 ,in general ,each fiscal year1 the ,corporation shall conduct a survey of a sample of its customers to assess the satisfaction of those customers with the operation and procedures of the ,corporation1 with particular attention to customers of the ,corporation that are small businesses and cooperatives4 7#b7 ,report to congress ,the ,corporation shall include in its annual report required under section #bdj;,a a report on the survey conducted under paragraph 7#a7 that includes1 as appropriate1 summaries of recommendations made by customers of the ,corporation with respect to ways to improve the operations and procedures of the ,corporation4 4 #bji4 ,schedule ,b hiring authority ,in carrying out the purposes of this ,act and its responsibilities under this ,act1 the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation may1 in addition to other authorities available1 employ not more than #bj individuals1 on a limited-appointment basis1 pursuant to schedule ,b of subpart ,c of part #bac of title #e1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations1 for the purpose of furthering specific efforts in sub-,saharan ,africa with respect to power production and generation and distribution1 including off-grid efforts4 #baj4 ,sense of ,congress on funding ,it is the sense of ,congress that appropriations for the administrative expenses and activities under section #bcd7;g77#e7 of the ,foreign ,assistance of #aifa 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #baid7;g77#e77 of the ,corporation in each of the fiscal years #bjae through #bjai should be adjusted to reflect the resources needed to carry out the purposes of this ,act1 including enabling the ,corporation to hire personnel and to upgrade systems infrastructure1 as appropriate1 to implement the purposes of this ,act4 #baa4 ,report on equity authority ,not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,inspector ,general of the ,overseas ,private ,investment ,corporation 7appointed pursuant to the amendments made by section #bjg7 shall submit to ,congress a report on the authorities of the ,corporation to effectively meet its statutory objectives1 including as modified by this ,act1 that includes an assessment of the following3 7#a7 ,the effectiveness of the existing authorities of the ,corporation in promoting investment in energy and infrastructure projects4 7#b7 ,the effect granting the ,corporation the authority to directly invest in projects would have on-- 7,a7 the ability of the ,corporation to support development projects1 including infrastructure and energy projects1 that advance the foreign policy goals of the ,united ,states2 7,b7 the risk profile of the ,corporation2 7,c7 the budget of the ,corporation2 7,d7 the success rate of projects1 measured in terms of capacity to meet development goals and financial targets2 7,e7 sectors or regions in which equity investment would be particularly beneficial or harmful to furthering the mission of the ,corporation2 and 7,f7 the capability of the ,corporation to meet its statutory objectives1 including as modified by this ,act1 including whether granting such authority would limit the effectiveness of the ,corporation in meeting its goals with respect to stimulating ,united ,states private sector investment in such projects1 including investment by small- and medium-sized enterprises4 7#c7 ,the effect of any other financing instruments that may be better suited to energy or infrastructure projects4 7#d7 ,the competitiveness of financing provided by the ,corporation relative to financing provided by development finance institutions of other major economies4