Fraser Praises Rymer Over Electricity Changes
Deputy Premier Julian Fraser praised Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer for his clear presentation on an amendment allowing the BVI Electricity Corporation to increase rates for customers consuming over 1,500 kilowatt-hours monthly. Fraser, a former minister, said Rymer is "learning fast" and urged him to continue the work as the change will affect roughly five per cent of customers, mainly large users.
Deputy Premier Julian Fraser has publicly commended Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer for his handling of a recent House of Assembly debate on electricity rates, saying the minister is "learning fast." Fraser made the remarks after Rymer explained an amendment to the Statutory Rates, Fees and Charges Act that permits the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) to raise rates for customers who use more than 1,500 kilowatt-hours (kWh) in a month. "I thought that the Minister of Communications and Works did an excellent job in his presentation," Fraser said during the sitting on August 20, 2026, adding: "I must say that the kid is learning fast." Fraser, who previously served as Communications and Works Minister, also expressed support for the intent of the amendment and encouraged Rymer to "keep up the good work," while noting there remains substantial work ahead.
Rymer, the Fifth District representative, told the House the change is narrowly targeted: only about five per cent of BVIEC customers — largely large businesses and heavy commercial users — would face higher rates, while an estimated 95 per cent of customers, including most households and small businesses, would see no increase.
The amendment was approved by the House, enabling BVIEC greater flexibility to adjust tariffs for high-consumption accounts. The move is significant for BVI residents because electricity costs are a major expense for both families and businesses. By focusing increases on the top-consuming accounts, government and BVIEC officials say the measure aims to balance operational needs with protection for typical consumers.
Critics may still question the impact on major employers and the potential for higher operating costs to be passed down to consumers. Political commentator Claude Skelton Cline recently noted that the Fifth District is receiving strong representation, comments that align with the public praise Fraser offered for Rymer’s performance.
As Rymer continues in his ministerial role, residents will be watching how the amendment is implemented and whether the targeted approach achieves its intended fiscal and service outcomes. The House-approved change does not immediately set new tariff levels; it establishes the legal authority for BVIEC to increase charges for accounts exceeding the 1,500 kWh threshold, subject to the utility’s rate-setting processes and any required regulatory oversight.
Primary source: BVI Platinum