Posted: Thursday, October 16, 2025. 6:44 am CST.
By Breaking Belize News Staff (HP): The Belize Water Services Limited (BWS) has officially requested a 20% tariff increase as part of its five-year Business Plan submitted to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) on October 1, 2025.
The proposed hike aims to fund an ambitious $130 million capital program focused on expanding water infrastructure, improving service delivery, and modernizing operations nationwide.
Executive Chairman Cornelio Acosta, speaking alongside Chief Operations Officer, said the company remains financially stable despite inflationary pressures and rising costs.
“BWS is one of the most financially stable utilities in the Caribbean,” Acosta stated. “We make a profit and do not rely on government subsidies. But inflation since 2020 has driven up production costs by over 8% and materials by nearly 95%. That’s the reality we face.”
Acosta emphasized that while operations would continue without the increase, future expansion projects could be delayed or scaled back, particularly those related to storage capacity, redundancy wells, and new residential developments.
He also revealed that BWS is exploring a more equitable tariff structure, including a social block component to protect vulnerable households.
“It’s not just about increasing rates,” Acosta said. “We’re also focused on efficiency, cost reduction, and ensuring tariff stability where possible.”
The PUC will hold a public hearing on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Biltmore Plaza, Belize City, where BWS will present its plan and the public can share feedback.
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The post BWS defends 20% rate hike request, says it’s needed for expansion, not survival appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Thursday, October 16, 2025. 6:44 am CST. By Breaking Belize News Staff (HP): The Belize Water Services Limited (BWS) has officially requested a 20% tariff
The post BWS defends 20% rate hike request, says it’s needed for expansion, not survival appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.