Lights out! Removal of G.C.T. from J.P.S. bills!

I know that I am not the only one who cringes when I am about to open my electricity bill.

For a number of Jamaicans, finding out how much they will be charged is like playing a round in a dangerous game of Russian roulette. They never know if this will be the bill that kills their pockets.

It almost seemed as if they digital meters made the situation worse as the bills seemed to skyrocket after their introduction. In a welcome move Dr Phillip Paulwell, energy minister, has announced the government’s intention to remove the general consumption tax (G.C.T.) from electricity.

This move has been long overdue as the bills climbed to staggering figures. Consumers eagerly await the final confirmation on how their bills will reflect this new policy.

Removal of the tax might mean less money in the government’s purse but there have already been discussions about alternative avenues of supplying our energy needs. The monopoly that J.P.S.(Jamaica Public Service) has enjoyed over the years has never been good for consumers. If we can get our energy needs met without derailing efforts by consumers to live quality lives then half the battle is won.

What do you think about the announcement? Let me hear from you!

- Teri Ann Renee Paisley (Gleaner on-line writer)

Tags: electricity