Thursday , March 28 2024

Saba receives temporary electricity cost alleviation

The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy (EZK) has approved a request to reduce the fixed tariff cost of electricity on Saba. Shortly after hurricanes Irma and Maria, The Saba Electric Company applied to EZK for interim relief for a large part of the non-subsidized kVA connections on Saba.

To help alleviate the financial burden on businesses and inhabitants, EZK will now provide a subsidy that temporarily reduces the fixed tariffs of kVA categories 13.3 to 93.3. The Public Entity Saba, RCN and the Ministry of OCW (schools) have asked to be excluded from this subsidy so that the budget will be solely available for those that need the financial relief the most.

“Electricity is a basic need, but energy prices on Saba are high. This subsidy is badly needed in a time when people on the island are struggling to make ends meet, so I am greatly appreciative of the Ministry’s help”, said Commissioner of Energy, Rolando Wilson.

The relief will be provided for at least eight months and, depending on the development of the local economy, may be extended to a maximum of one year. The first part of the subsidy will be paid out in January in the form of one-time credit for an 80% reduction of the fixed tariffs within the targeted kVA categories over the months Sept-Dec 2017. Subsequently, it will be decided how the remaining part of the subsidy will be paid out in 2018.

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