Key Stakeholders Meet to Strengthen 2025 Hurricane Preparedness

The National Restoration of Utilities Committee (NRUC) held a key planning meeting on Friday to improve disaster preparedness for the 2025 hurricane season.

The meeting was chaired by Dr Leroy Almendarez and brought together representatives from BEL, DIGI, SMART, BWS, Fortis, UNO, the Port Authority, NEMO, the Public Utilities Commission, and the Belize Broadcasting Authority.

Discussions focused on disaster response protocols, utility restoration priorities, and the development of a standardised national procedure to guide recovery efforts.

The National Emergency Coordinator, Daniel Mendez, presented the 2025 National Hazard Outlook, as well as the updates to the “All Clear” protocols.

Committee members also reviewed drafts of a national standard operating procedure, including damage assessment and a plan for emergency passes and systematic shutdowns.

“By standardising procedures and strengthening partnerships, we can ensure a resilient and rapid recovery for Belize,” said Dr. Almendarez.

PUC Finalises Decision on BEL’s 2025 Annual Review

The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has issued its final decision on Belize Electricity Limited’s (BEL) 2025 Annual Review Proceedings, which covers the tariff period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

Following a thorough review of BEL’s proposal, the PUC has decided to keep electricity rates, tariffs, and regulated values unchanged. BEL says this aims to balance affordability for consumers with the financial sustainability of BEL, in line with the Electricity Act and related regulations.

As part of its ruling, the PUC has directed BEL to take two specific actions. BEL must submit a detailed report by June 30, 2025, outlining the formation of a new wholesale generation company, Synergy Power Belize Limited, including the proposed rates it plans to charge. The company is also required to present a comprehensive proposal for a new cost-reflective tariff structure, supported by relevant data and analysis.

Exit mobile version