By Georgetta Williams

The Government has formally notified the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) that it will not renew the current all-island electricity licence under the existing terms.

The existing licence is set to expire on July 8, 2027.

As per the established arrangement, the Government must indicate its intention to discuss the terms of any new electricity licence at least two years before the current one expires.

That deadline falls in July 2025.

Energy Minister Daryl Vaz provided an update on the situation during a press conference in Kingston this morning.

He stated that before the current licence expires, the Government intends to negotiate new licensing terms and conditions with potential investors.

Mr. Vaz also confirmed that he has formally written to JPS to inform the company of the Government’s intentions.

The Energy Minister said the people of Jamaica have not been well served by the existing electricity supply arrangements.

He explained that the decision comes in the context of developments in the wider electricity sector, including a significant global reduction in the cost of renewables.