BWS Outlines Five-Year Plan: Will Belizeans See Higher Water Rates in 2026?

Belizeans could see changes in their water bills as Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL) enters a five-year tariff review. The company has submitted its business plan to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), detailing major investments, operational goals, and a proposed 20% tariff increase. But what exactly does this mean for Belizeans?

According to the plan report, the increase is meant to “align the cost and expenses related to the production and distribution process with the selling price of the resource”, ensuring the company’s financial viability while improving water and sewer services across the country.

The company argues that without the increase, it cannot sustain operations or fund critical upgrades. “Given the level of capital expenditure required… BWS requires an estimated increase in average tariff of 20%,” the report states.

The plan shows that the adjustment would take effect in April 2026, with no further increases projected through 2030. BWS insists the change is needed to cover normal operating costs, repay debts, and support national expansion projects.

What Will the Money Be Used For?

BWS plans to spend BZD $130 million on capital improvements over the next five years.
Projects include “sewer collection and treatment systems, water expansion projects, water supply projects, meter replacement, capital renewal and replacement, and similar projects.”

The company says this funding will come from a mix of tariff revenue, government assistance, and additional debt. Currently, the company provides water to over 305,000 Belizeans, or about two-thirds of the country’s population. 

The report also pointed out climate resilience and water security, describing the plan as “a particular emphasis on climate change resiliency, water supply security, and environmental stewardship.”

If you’re wondering if consumers face higher bills across the board? Not exactly.

BWS is proposing a simplified tariff structure, reducing the number of consumption blocks from eight to five for both residential and non-residential customers. A new Social Customer Block will be introduced for small households that use 600 gallons or less per month.

The new rates will also maintain the 1,000-gallon minimum for all customers. According to the report, “the social classification is defined as a small residential dwelling… which uses water of an average 600 gallon or less monthly, solely for domestic use.”

This means that low-use households may benefit from a special lower rate, while higher consumption brackets will pay more.

What’s Driving These Changes?

Is the company struggling financially? The short answer is yes.

BWS admits that despite efficiency improvements, “the company is extremely cash short due to the fact that its revenues have been inadequate to provide sufficient financing to meet all its obligations plus provide for required expansion.”

The report points to rising operational costs, ageing infrastructure, and post-pandemic economic challenges. Inflation, higher fuel and energy prices, and increased demand from expanding communities have all contributed to the strain.

“Water is not only an Essential Service, but also a Social Good,” BWSL added in its report. “The socio-economic welfare of our nation requires development of this vital infrastructure and service.”

BWS has experienced several tariff changes over the years. In 2010, the company was granted a 12.2% increase. This was followed by a 7.2% reduction in 2012. 

In 2014, a 6.9% increase was approved and came into effect in April 2015. More recently, BWS requested tariff adjustments for the period from August 1, 2022, to March 31, 2025, citing constraints caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This request was denied.

What Comes Next?

The plan will be reviewed by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) before a final decision is made. The PUC is expected to publish its ruling by March 2026, ahead of the new tariff period beginning April 1, 2026.

In the meantime, the PUC will host a public hearing on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Biltmore Plaza in Belize City. BWSL will present its five-year plan during the meeting, and both the Commission and attendees will have the opportunity to share comments on the proposals.

Members of the public are encouraged to submit written comments on the submission by October 30, 2025, via email at info@puc.bz or in person at the PUC office.

The PUC is expected to issue its Initial Decision by November 14, 2025, with the Final Decision following within 15 days if no objections are raised.