BPL Rebate Sparks Response From Power Company’s Customers

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS –

Evlynn Ferguson

“A one-time rebate of $8.45 is getting mixed reactions from the residents I spoke with today. While a few say they appreciate any break on their power bill, others say saving just under nine dollars feels like a total slap in the face.”

The Bahamas Power and Light rebate comes after a settlement with the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority and is meant to provide direct relief to residents.

The credit is expected to appear on July bills for customers who were active in March.

But do residents feel the credit makes a real difference?

For many, the amount seemed far too small compared to the cost of electricity and frequent blackouts.

BPL customer Larry Johnson didn’t hold back when it came to sharing his frustration.

Larry Johnson – BPL Customer

“That’s ridiculous, flat-out ridiculous. That doesn’t even make sense, you know what I mean? They should be ashamed of themselves posting something like that, $8.45. That can’t do anything for nobody, you know what I mean? It’s just crazy, flat-out crazy.”

This customer says while she appreciated BPL’s effort, she’s not satisfied with the rebate.

And here’s why.

BPL Customer

“I think it isn’t enough, especially when it comes down to persons losing electronics, refrigerators, air conditioners, and all that good stuff. I think that’s a slap in the face to Bahamians, but on the other hand, I really think it’s a good start. So I hope that later on, moving forward, they continue and give persons more.”

Customers like Quentin Lightbourne are connecting the credit directly to the recent and frequent blackouts.

He’s questioning how a small refund can compensate for the inconvenience and expenses caused by constant power cuts.

Quentin Lightbourne – BPL Customer

“Uh, not really, not really, not compared to all the blackouts, no. Because, number one, you lose more than all that during the blackouts. I don’t think it’s fair.”

Others took a different approach, saying the initiative was misdirected.

This customer told me she believes the money could have been used in more meaningful ways.

BPL Customer

“I don’t know who they’re playing with, but eight dollars plus is a joke. They might as well collect all that money together, do some social services with it, and find a real deduction to put toward my bill.”

Still, not everyone was completely critical.

Danny Wright says he truly appreciated the effort, even if the amount is small, and believes something is better than nothing.

Danny Wright – BPL Customer

“I understand the efforts and the work that’s being put in, but the giveback is a good initiative. Like I say, something is better than nothing, so we should receive it and be blessed that it is happening because they didn’t have to do it.”