IRC Expands Public Consultations as Rate Review Gains Momentum

IRC Expands Public Consultations as Rate Review Gains Momentum

Momentum around Dominica’s ongoing electricity Rate Review is steadily building, with consultations now moving through several communities and drawing consistent public interest. The IRC has spent the past three weeks engaging directly with residents, businesses, and stakeholders, creating space for open discussion on proposed changes to electricity pricing.

Recent sessions in Portsmouth and Marigot brought together a mix of participants, each raising questions and sharing views on how the proposed tariff adjustments could affect daily life and business operations. These meetings are part of a broader outreach effort to ensure the final decision reflects a wide range of perspectives, not just technical assessments.

According to Executive Director Justinn Kase, the process so far has been productive, with a noticeable level of engagement from those attending. “To date, the consultations are going well and the IRC and DOMLEC are trying their best to ensure that the public is properly educated on the tariff review,” he noted.

The emphasis at this stage is not only on presenting information but also on listening. Participants have been given the opportunity to question the structure of the proposed rates, better understand how electricity costs are calculated, and explore what changes may lie ahead. For many, these sessions offer the first detailed look at how pricing decisions are shaped and what factors influence them.

Equally important is the role of feedback. The Commission has reiterated that contributions from the public will be taken seriously as part of the final review. “I must reiterate that the commission will again consider all ideas and comments that deserve merit,” Kase stated.

The outreach programme continues into the coming week, with additional sessions planned to reach more communities and stakeholders. These engagements provide further opportunities for individuals and organizations to hear directly from the IRC, ask questions, and contribute their views.

The table below outlines the remaining scheduled consultation activities, including dates, times, and venues for each session.

Upcoming Public Consultation Activities

April Time Activity Proposed Venue
Wednesday 22 5.00 pm Marigot Public Meeting Village Council Building
Friday 24 5.00 pm Castle Bruce Public Meeting Castle Bruce School – Castle Bruce Primary School
Tuesday 28 5.00 pm Matt in the Morning on Q95 Q95 Radio Station
Tuesday 28 5.00 pm Grand Bay Public Meeting Grand Bay YOUTH Centre
Wednesday 29 5.00 pm Experience Creole on DBS DBS Radio Station – Victoria Street, Roseau
Thursday 30 5.00 pm La Plaine Public Meeting La Plaine Primary School

As the process continues, participation remains essential. The Commission is encouraging all interested persons to attend these sessions or follow the discussions through available channels.

Attention is also being drawn to the submission deadlines, with initial responses due by May 8. A second round of feedback will follow, allowing further input before the final evaluation stage.

With consultations ongoing and more engagements ahead, the current phase represents a critical window for public involvement. The discussions taking place now will help shape the final decisions on electricity pricing and the direction of the sector in the months ahead.
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