The Small Business Association of Jamaica is strongly rejecting any suggestion of higher light bills following Hurricane Melissa.
The association says it is alarmed by reports that the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) may consider increasing electricity rates after the storm which has already caused widespread disruption, damage and economic challenges across the country.
SBAJ President Garnet Reid says such a move would hurt thousands of micro small and medium sized businesses that are already struggling.
Mr. Reid says many operators will be dealing with property damage, inventory loss and reduced cash flow, and an increase in electricity costs at this time would be unconscionable.
He says JPS should focus on restoration and supporting national recovery instead of passing additional costs on to vulnerable customers.
The SBAJ is calling on the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) to reject any proposal for a rate hike. It also wants a guarantee that customers won't face penalties or extra charges because of extended outages during and after Melissa.
In addition, the association is urging JPS to consider temporary relief or rebates for those affected by the storm and says it is prepared to work with the government and other stakeholders on fair solutions to support energy access and recovery.
comments powered by Disqus
_logo.png){kind=logo}
All feeds
