The Human Rights and Civil Integration Committee reviewed the 2024 report of the Public Defender of Consumer Interests, operating independently from the Georgian National Energy and Water Supply Regulatory Commission, regarding the state of consumer rights.

According to the acting Public Defender of Consumer Interests, Nino Guleishvili, in 2024 the Energy Ombudsman’s Office received consumer inquiries through in-person visits, social media, telephone, and email communication.

She noted that a record number of official protocols—144 in total—were registered as grounds for case initiation during the reporting year. Most of these were collective complaints concerning issues affecting residents of entire villages, neighbourhoods, or residential buildings.

According to Nino Guleishvili, the total number of registered correspondences in 2024 reached 1,406, including 606 new complaints and petitions. The Office provided legal consultations to 2,250 consumers. Additionally, over 8,000 individuals—both private and legal persons—received assistance via social media and telephone.

She further stated that, through the intervention of the Energy Ombudsman’s Office, improperly or excessively charged fees were revised in favour of consumers, amounting to GEL 175,000.

“The Public Defender's Office issued 618 recommendations to energy companies, which led to adjustments in consumer bills totalling nearly GEL 50,000. Based on the Ombudsman’s mediation, the Georgian National Energy and Water Supply Regulatory Commission issued decisions in 12 disputed cases, resulting in corrections amounting to approximately GEL 125,000", - Nino Guleishvili reported.

The speaker highlighted that throughout 2024, the Office actively participated in and organised various initiatives aimed at strengthening consumer rights protection and raising public awareness.

The Committee assessed the performance of the Public Defender’s Office positively.