Durrant Pate/Contributor

The Government of Jamaica is now ready to begin the long-awaited negotiations with the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) for a new All-island Electricity Licence.

This was disclosed a short while ago by Energy Minister, Daryl Vaz, as he delivered his Sectoral Debate presentation in the House of Representatives this afternoon. He announced that the Cabinet of Jamaica has approved a draft Terms of Agreement for the new licence, which is to be negotiated with JPS, subject to the execution of a Non-Disclosure Agreement between the parties.

At the same time, a review of the Electricity Act and the Regulatory framework is to be done to give effect to the new licence regime. The Electricity Licence Negotiations Team (ELNT) is now awaiting the signing of the NDA to proceed with negotiations.

At the same time, the process is underway to engage international Legal Counsel to support the process as the Energy Ministry strives to achieve the most efficient and effective process. It is to be noted that, as was already outlined, if there can be no agreement with JPS will approach the international market to identify a provider. 

Energy Sector Reform and National Energy Policy 

Minister Vaz told the parliament that a White Paper better known as a policy document for Electricity Sector Reform, has been drafted and is now subject to review. The White Paper will be brought to Parliament as soon as Cabinet approval is obtained.

An updated National Energy Policy, along with its supporting Action Plan and sub-policies, is being finalised for submission to Cabinet, for which Minister Vaz signed the submission today. This policy, he explains, sets a clear pathway toward a modern energy system that is secure, reliable, affordable, and sustainable. 

It addresses key national priorities, including expanding access to the remaining 5% of Jamaicans without electricity, improving system efficiency, maintaining affordability, and strengthening resilience to natural disasters. “In practical terms, Madam Speaker, this is about building an energy system that works for the Jamaican people—one that reduces costs over time, supports economic growth, and protects us from external shocks,” he told the upper House of Parliament.

Post Melissa electricity restoration 

The Energy Minister gave the latest numbers of the post-hurricane energy restoration numbers. As at this morning, May 5, the number of customers without power is 1,343, so restoration completion is now at 99.81%. 

The parish breakdown for remaining customers is:

• Westmoreland – 1,283 
• St. Elizabeth – 60 

Of the remaining customers to be restored, approximately 40% (538) are not ready to receive power safely due to property-related damage, leaving approximately 805 customers who can receive electricity service still to be restored. 

He told the parliament that the remaining work is being impacted by difficult terrain, limited access to remote areas, adverse weather, and challenging ground conditions, which continue to slow progress. The final phase of restoration will proceed at a measured pace, with smaller daily gains.