JPS Estimated Bill Announcement Infuriates Jamaicans; Phillip Paulwell Bashes the Move “It is Unreasonable and Unfair”

Following the passage of Hurricane Beryl, several sections of Jamaica have been left without power for more than two weeks. As tensions began to flare, with some taking to the streets to protest, many Jamaicans were further infuriated on Friday after the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) announced that customers would be receiving an estimated bill.

According to JPS’s announcement, the company’s ability to conduct manual and remote meter readings was interrupted by the passage of Beryl on July 3. As customers’ bills for the period of June–July will be estimated, JPS urged its customers not to be surprised if their bills do not reflect their most recent usage.

The company added that customers’ actual usage will be reflected in their next bill.

“… We recognise that this estimate may not reflect your true electricity usage since the passage of the hurricane. But not to worry, your actual usage will be reflected on your next meter reading. Any over-estimation or under-estimation will therefore be taken into account for your next bill,” the notice stated.

Following JPS’s announcement, Phillip Paulwell, the Opposition Spokesperson on Energy, called for the organisation to reconsider using an estimated bill to charge customers. Paulwell has also called on the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) to intervene in JPS’s controversial move.

The member of parliament said the decision would give the company an undeserved windfall and was “unfair” in a time of such hardship. He also highlighted that many are still without power.

“The decision to issue estimated bills comes at a particularly inopportune time when consumers have been significantly impacted by widespread disruptions in power supply, with many experiencing no power at all due to the recent hurricane. It is unreasonable and unfair to burden consumers with estimated charges during a period of such hardship and uncertainty,” Paulwell stated.

Additionally, Paullwell highlighted that JPS’s meter reading and billing systems had been digitised, yet they are resorting to using estimated bills.

Reacting to JPS’s notice, disgruntled Jamaicans have been sharing their opinions online.

“I have digital meter.  Got back electricity 4 days after so why should I get an estimated bill. More ways for JPS to rob us,” one social media user stated.

While another said, “Estimated bills is always higher than your regular monthly bills so I don’t think it’s right for them to do.”

One person wrote, “Estimate bills when jps have  smart meters  how wicked can jps get.”