Regulator Examines WASCO’s Bid for Rate Review

The Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) is requesting a review of proposed rates for the 2024-2027 period, marking the first price review in 12 years.

In a press release on Thursday, the National Utilities Regulatory Commission (NURC), which regulates the water, wastewater, and electricity sectors in Saint Lucia, announced that it has begun reviewing WASCO’s tariff application for the upcoming triennium.

It assured that consumer interests will be a considered in determining whether to approve the proposed rate adjustments. However, the specific rate proposals have not been disclosed.

The review process will unfold in three phases. The first phase involves a detailed assessment of WASCO’s tariff application. 

“An important aspect of this review will be to establish a firm foundation for economic regulation in the future. The prices for water and wastewater (sewerage) services were last reviewed in 2013. Accordingly, for this rate review, the NURC is required to assess WASCO’s submission – that is, its business plan, investment plan, accounting information and other supporting information,” the NURC statement said.

“The NURC must also be satisfied that the interests of customers are considered and that prices provide appropriate indicators in relation to the cost of providing service.”

The second phase will focus on stakeholder consultations. WASCO, with NURC acting as an intermediary, will present its case to key stakeholders and interest groups in Saint Lucia. During this phase, WASCO will justify its proposed rate adjustments, outlining the challenges it faces and the strategies it plans to implement to improve service quality. The presentation will also cover the expected revenue from the rate adjustments and proposed strategies to address customer concerns.

After reviewing WASCO’s documents and feedback from stakeholders, NURC will issue a Draft Determination Report (Rates and Miscellaneous Charges). This document will detail the findings and proposed adjustments to rates and charges. 

In this final stage, stakeholders will be invited to provide feedback and engage in face-to-face public consultations with NURC. 

The NURC will conclude the process by publishing and circulating a Final Determination Report (Rates and Miscellaneous Charges) for the water and sewerage sector, following review of all comments and concerns raised concerning the draft document.

NURC assured that, as an independent regulatory body, it remains committed to protecting consumer interests while ensuring that WASCO has the necessary resources to provide high-quality services at efficient costs. 

The Commission also stressed its responsibility to ensure that vulnerable groups, including low-income households, can access essential services at affordable rates.