Jamaica’s National Water Commission (NWC) has applied to the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) for a 51% water tariff increase, a move that would affect its roughly 500,000 customers. Multiple outlets say the OUR confirms receiving the application and is expected to announce a determination after reviewing it.
NWC officials frame the request as linked to funding for priority projects and the need to align revenues with expenses. Jamaica Observer reports acting NWC President Kevin Kerr tells the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) the application was submitted last Friday and that the company would revise its investment plan if the regulator approves less than the full increase. It also says the NWC argues it has faced deterioration in its revenue position, including challenges tied to customer payments and rising operating costs, including energy expenses.
Other details differ slightly by outlet. The Gleaner and Observer both reference a consultation opportunity for public input before the OUR makes a decision, while The Rio Times focuses on the size of the request and the scale of unpaid bills, without adding the time period covered by the application.
