Energy Ministry acknowledges public concern about cost of electricity

The Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology has taken note of the concerns of the public relating to the high cost of electricity. “We understand the concerns of the people and indeed we recognize that the high cost of electricity could pose a barrier to access especially for Jamaicans who are in the lower socio-economic stratum of society. We are also mindful of the fact that due to the impact of COVID-19, many Jamaicans are facing increased economic hardship,” according to the Honourable Fayval Williams, Minister of Science, Energy and Technology. However, the Minister is reminding Jamaicans that the JPS operates in a regulated environment with rates set by the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) and that this is done in a transparent manner that requires public consultation. The Act also provides for the OUR to carry out investigations to determine whether the interests of consumers are adequately protected. “Jamaicans can use the provisions in the law to challenge the JPS. For example, if a customer is dissatisfied with what is represented on his or her electricity bill, that customer could bring a complaint to the OUR about the JPS,” the Minister noted. Minister Williams expressed that the solution to access to and cost of electricity must be strategically addressed by “accelerating the pace at which we increase the mix of renewable energy in electricity generation.” She noted that this was a primary focus of the Ministry for this fiscal year and beyond.

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