Residents Rage At High BPL Bills, Government Promises Relief

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – From shock to frustration, the mood on social media as some Bahamas Power and Light customers across the country posted screenshots of what they claim are unusually high electricity bills.

One person said “them late bills are very wrong, almost doubled for my mom, very ridiculous[sic]….”

Another person said “mine doubled, but it’s still under 100 dollars….”

However others weren’t as lucky, as one customer we spoke to says their bill, which does not go over $260, jumped to over $330 this month, and they insist their usage hasn’t changed.

On Tuesday, the Prime Minister’s Office announced a new summer energy rebate program, set to kick in for July bills.

The fuel charge will drop to 17.4 cents and 21.4 cents per kilowatt hour, down from current rates of 18.5 cents and 22.5 cents.


Officials say the temporary rate reduction is meant to offer some relief during this intense heatwave, a time when air conditioners, fridges and water heaters are working overtime.

To ensure the rebate plan is fair and fully regulated, the government has also directed the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority to make sure the initiative meets national energy standards and protects consumers.

Additionally the 
government says it’s also taking a long-term approach, directing BPL to speed up plans to switch from diesel to liquefied natural gas by the end of the year.

Now 
BPL is urging customers to adopt energy-saving habits in the meantime, and to contact their customer service team with any questions about their bills or the rebate.