JPS Customers to See Major Reduction in September Bills, Energy Minister Announces

Kingston, Jamaica – Energy Minister Daryl Vaz has confirmed that Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) customers can expect a significant decrease in their electricity bills for the September billing cycle. Vaz disclosed this news following a conversation earlier today with JPS President Hugh Grant.

Vaz revealed that Grant informed him that bills for September would be substantially lower compared to August. The reduction aligns with directives from the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) and reflects the government’s ongoing advocacy for lower energy costs.

This decrease is anticipated to provide much-needed relief to customers who have been financially strained by high electricity bills, especially those who faced power outages following Hurricane Beryl on July 3. The September bills are expected to be significantly more affordable compared to the previous month.

According to JPS, the September bills will feature a 34% reduction in the Fuel Charge component. This adjustment will lower the Fuel Charge from J$32.17 per unit in August to J$21.30 per unit in September. The Fuel Charge, which fluctuates based on fuel types used and overall electricity demand, was adjusted in response to the disruptions caused by Hurricane Beryl and the stabilization of fuel variables.

JPS has assured customers of its commitment to transparency and compliance with legal and regulatory standards, and it continues to prioritize delivering stable, high-quality service.

This reduction follows public outcry over significant increases in August bills. In response, the OUR instructed JPS to revise and lower some August bills and correct any instances where bills showed zero consumption but did not reflect a zero monetary value.

This development aims to address the financial strain on JPS customers and underscores ongoing efforts to manage and mitigate energy costs amid natural disruptions.