The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has announced that revised utility tariffs will take effect from January 2026, following ongoing stakeholder consultations and public hearings.
According to PURC’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Shafic Suleman, the review seeks to strike a delicate balance between safeguarding consumers from excessive charges and ensuring that service providers remain financially sustainable.
“Our goal is to prevent consumers from being overburdened with high tariffs while at the same time enabling utility providers to invest in reliable service delivery,” Dr. Suleman explained.
He emphasized that the commission remains committed to protecting vulnerable groups, with the lifeline tariff system still in place to guarantee affordable access for low-income households.
Dr. Suleman further noted that feedback gathered during consultations will be crucial in shaping the final tariff decision. He acknowledged the complexity of utility regulation, highlighting the need to balance consumer interests with the financial viability of the sector.
“Keeping the lights on is complex and expensive,” he added, “but we are committed to ensuring that investments in infrastructure continue without causing undue hardship to consumers.”