Energy regulator CERA on Wednesday warned people not to install photovoltaic panels without prior approval.

CERA said they had reason to suspect people have installed electricity production units, mostly photovoltaic panels, without applying for, and acquiring, a licence.

"CERA considers such actions illegal,” the regulator said warning that the law provides for financial penalties and/or imprisonment.

No one can produce electricity without permission by the energy regulator or the commerce ministry although a number of government schemes are currently open to enable consumers to set up photovoltaic systems at home or as a business.

CERA said that illegally installing systems could be dangerous during the installation process or for those coming in direct or indirect contact with the systems.