NASSAU, BAHAMAS- The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation (BCCEC) is calling for urgent reforms to buffer the impact of rising energy costs on businesses, especially small enterprises facing mounting financial strain.
“The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce & Employers’ Confederation has seen the public discourse and fielded calls from our members concerning the fuel surcharge increases and lack of standardized usage periods of 365/12, rather than some periods at 28 and others at 34 or more days, that have resulted in an increase in electricity bills,” the BCCEC said in a statement. “Undoubtedly, any costs that detract from the bottom line of a business would have a negative impact on its operations.”
The BCCEC noted it has maintained productive relations with the Ministry of Energy and Transport and has already reached out to identify possible avenues of relief for its members and the broader business community.
One such opportunity is through energy audits, which the Chamber says can highlight areas of wastage and offer cost-saving solutions. “While we have not waited on the government to make these available, but have worked with private organizations to provide discounted audits for members, we renew the call for the government to provide those measures soonest,” the Chamber said, adding that smaller businesses in particular may lack the cash flow to absorb such costs independently.
The organization also urged Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) to implement standardized billing cycles: “We call on BPL to standardize its usage periods to reflect 365/12 rather than the fluctuating variations we have noticed.”
In the meantime, the BCCEC said it is actively promoting energy efficiency, offering conservation tips and resources via its website and YouTube channel, and encouraging the adoption of renewable energy solutions.
“We remain committed to working with the Ministry, BPL, the business community and consumers to discover avenues for cost-savings—including, but not limited to, energy.”
