Bahamas Power & Light Base Rate Increase Likely After Elections, Says Opposition Leader
Michael Pintard, the Opposition leader, asserts that a base tariff increase for Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) is 'very likely' after the upcoming general election. He cites government agreements with Bahamas Utility Company and Bahamas Grid Company, which require BPL to manage increased costs totaling 10.125 cents per kilowatt hour.
This charge represents 81% to 88.8% of BPL's current base tariff of approximately 12.5 cents per KWh. BPL also faces a $500 million legacy debt and must finance maintenance of its infrastructure. While the government aims to transition to LNG and solar energy, potentially mitigating overall electricity costs, Pintard urges transparency on whether BPL's revenues can cover its obligations without increasing rates.
