BVIEC Boss Defends Strict Disconnection Policy
The British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation has defended its disconnection procedures, clarifying that current cutoffs stem from long-standing arrears rather than recent tariff adjustments. Utility leadership emphasized that consistent revenue collection is essential to keep the territory's power provider operational while offering support to customers facing genuine hardship.
The British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) has moved to clarify its stance regarding service disconnections across the territory, emphasizing that current cutoffs are standard procedure for accounts that are more than 30 days in arrears rather than a reflection of recent increases in electricity bills.
Addressing the matter during a recent press briefing, Dr. Smith clarified that disconnections taking place this month are linked directly to unpaid balances carried over from previous billing cycles. Under the corporation's standard operating policy, any customer account that falls past due by more than 30 days becomes subject to service interruption.
Smith reminded the public that although the BVIEC is a government-owned statutory body, it must function as a self-sustaining commercial business. He noted that the utility cannot survive if customers habitually fail to pay for the essential electricity services they consume. Smith offered an apology for any perceived lack of empathy from the corporation during conversations regarding delinquent accounts.
However, he maintained that revenue collection cannot be compromised if the territory is to maintain a reliable power grid. He also underscored that BVIEC employees, including leadership, receive no special rebates, discounts, or preferential treatment on their personal electricity bills.
Smith revealed that he has instructed internal staff to disconnect his own service without hesitation should he ever fail to settle his bill on time, highlighting a commitment to fairness across all customer demographics. The utility reiterated that it remains willing to assist residents who are experiencing genuine financial difficulties by establishing manageable payment plans.
However, management stressed that proactive communication is vital, noting that the corporation takes issue primarily with habitual delinquency where accounts are left unattended without prior arrangement.
Primary source: VINO