No change in electricity tariff for third quarter |15 July 2019

The Seychelles Energy Board (SEB) has decided not to adjust the electricity tariff for the third quarter of 2019.

During its quarterly review of electricity tariff, the board noted that the weighted average fuel price charged to the Public Utilities Corporation (PUC) by the Seychelles Petroleum Company (Seypec) has increased over the period March 16, 2019 to June 15, 2019 compared to the previous period.

In coming to its decision, the SEB balanced the Commission’s objectives of ensuring the economic feasibility of PUC, encouraging improvement of operational efficiency in the supply of electricity and ensuring price stability for consumers’ planning purposes.

Jean Rassool, SEB chairman, stated: “The Board would like to remind electricity consumers that if fuel prices continue to rise then tariffs may need to be increased at the next review period so as to ensure PUC remains economically sustainable.”

Mr Rassool pointed out security of electricity supply is of paramount importance to consumers.

The chief executive of the Seychelles Energy Commission (SEC) Tony Imaduwa is advising consumers to plan and improve their energy efficiency practices as well as adopting renewable energy technologies so as to minimise the impact of any future tariff increases that may be necessary and urged the public to get in contact with the SEC for more advice.

The next review of electricity tariff based on fuel price will be announced towards the end of September 2019. However, the SEB will continue to monitor developments during the quarter and should there be a sudden sharp increase in fuel prices an adjustment may be made before the next review period.