“We Have to Be Patient; These Are Some Stumbling Blocks”

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – For many Bahamians, the power outages have become more than an inconvenience. Homes have been left without air conditioning during extreme heat, businesses have had operations disrupted, and critical services have also felt the impact.

Bahamas Power and Light has acknowledged that the grid is under significant pressure, particularly as electricity demand climbs during the summer months.

And as the power company looks for ways to relieve some of that pressure, large corporate consumers with alternative power sources are being asked to help.

One of those major consumers is Baha Mar.

We asked Senior Vice President of Government and External Affairs Robert Sands whether the resort is prepared to step in.

Robert Sands – Senior Vice President of Government and External Affairs, Baha Mar

“They say that corporate Bahamas has been cooperating with BPL for years, and there are opportunities when the grid is challenged, that they ask corporate Bahamas that has the capacity to operate on their standby generation to support them for a limited time factor. And this is not a new occurrence. And I think that’s good corporate citizenry. In a country where entities like Baha Mar do well and benefit from the country, it’s only important that we support and give back the support the country through challenging times. So, yes.”

But as the cost of fuel continues to fluctuate, that presents another hurdle. When asked how the resort is managing rising diesel prices, Sands’ response was simple.

Robert Sands – Senior Vice President of Government and External Affairs, Baha Mar

“The cost is the cost, whatever the diesel charge is, that’s the diesel charge.”

While communities across New Providence continue to experience blackouts, Sands says Baha Mar itself has not been significantly impacted. In fact, he says the resort is doing well.

According to Sands, occupancy is up between 10 and 15 percent compared to this time last year, even during a period that would typically be considered slower.

And as BPL works to address the ongoing challenges, Sands has this message for Bahamians.

Robert Sands – Senior Vice President of Government and External Affairs, Baha Mar

“We have to be patient. These are some stumbling blocks, but by and large, we have been supportive of the progress and also the future of BPL.”

The bottom line for Sands is simple: occupancy is up, and the constant outages remain a non-factor for the resort.