The British regulator for the gas and electricity industry (excluding Northern Ireland where the Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation (NIAUR) is the regulator). Ofgem acts on behalf of the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority (GEMA). GEMA has a duty to protect consumer interests, promoting effective competition wherever possible, and has powers under the Competition Act 1998. Ofgem grants and enforces licences under the Electricity Act 1989 and the Gas Act 1986. For further information, see Practice note, Ofgem: roles, powers and duties.