BVI government takes steps to improve territory's electrical infrastructure
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| Published on Friday, February 5, 2010 |
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TORTOLA, BVI -- Minister for Communications and Works, Julian Fraser, on Thursday announced that immediate steps are being taken to improve the electricity supply in the British Virgin Islands.
He outlined plans to improve this critical infrastructure while addressing a meeting of the BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA). His presentation was entitled: “The Importance of the Territory’s Infrastructure to the Economic Development of the Virgin Islands.”
“The BVI Electricity Corporation has been working to ensure that contingencies are in place to ensure continuity in the event of a disaster, and on a programme to help consumers lower their energy consumption,” Fraser stated.
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Julian Fraser with BVICCHA Chairman Birney Harrigan, the Minister’s Private Secretary Gloria Mactavious and Acting Permanent Secretary Julian Willock.
GIS photo |
The Virgin Islands Party Government made it possible for residents to benefit from one month’s free electricity in 2008, as a means of easing the burden brought on by the hike in fuel prices and the subsequent global economic crisis. Additionally, the Corporation has introduced an Automatic Meter Reading System to eliminate human error, improve efficiencies, reduce operational costs, and improve customer confidence.
“After being inundated with negative publicity, the BVI Electricity Corporation engaged the services of a UK-based Consultant to review their billing platform,” the Minister of Communications and Works announced.
He also highlighted the existing 30-year old tariff system which has served the Territory well, but said it did not take sufficient factors into consideration to qualify as adequate for this modern society. He said the new proposed tariff is so sensitive that it makes distinctions between residential, commercial, industrial and even elderly consumers.
In response to a businessman’s concerns about frequent power outages in Cane Garden Bay, the Minister declared that there is absolutely no reason why there should not be a continuous supply of electricity. He said he will be engaging the services of an expert to advise him on the more efficient operation of the Territory’s electricity supply system and also ensure that the community is better informed about interruptions in the electricity supply.
Fraser concluded by reminding the business community that the administration of Premier Ralph O’Neal has an open door policy and remains committed to fostering good relationships between the public and private sector. “I call on you to work with us as we make our infrastructure better and in the end fortify the Virgin Islands as a place open for business.” | | | | Reads : 708 | | | |
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