NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The Ministry of Energy and Transport has strongly condemned the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) for approving a rate increase application from the Grand Bahama Power Company (GBPC) without the oversight or consent of the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA).

In a formal letter addressed to Mr. Randol Dorsette, Chairman of URCA, and Mr. J. Carlton Smith, URCA’s Chief Executive Officer, Minister of Energy and Transport JoBeth Coleby-Davis expressed the Ministry’s “unequivocal objection” to the GBPA’s actions, which it described as a significant regulatory irregularity.

The Ministry emphasized that the GBPA’s move directly contravenes the Electricity Acts of 2015 and 2024, which clearly designate URCA as the regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the energy sector across The Bahamas.

“This unilateral decision not only breaches our established legal framework but also threatens the Government’s ongoing efforts to reduce energy costs for all Bahamians,” Minister Coleby-Davis stated.

The Ministry called on URCA to enforce strict compliance with the Electricity Act and to prevent any rate increases that have not undergone proper regulatory review. The Government of The Bahamas, committed to ensuring that the energy sector remains affordable, reliable, and resilient, will not tolerate actions that undermine these goals or the legal governance of the country’s energy infrastructure.

“As we continue to work towards reducing the cost of energy and improving its reliability across The Bahamas, it is imperative that all stakeholders adhere to the laws set to safeguard the interests of the Bahamian people,” the statement read.

The Ministry expressed confidence that URCA would swiftly and decisively address this issue and uphold the rule of law in the energy sector.