The Jamaica Public Service (JPS) has set August 31, as its deadline for restoration of power to the remaining sections of St. Elizabeth that remain without the service.

At the same time, JPS has reiterated its commitment to having all affected areas in other parishes reconnected to the grid by August 12.

In a statement, JPS President and Chief Executive Officer Hugh Grant pointed out that for St. Elizabeth the process is one of rebuilding, not restoration.

He said based on the extent of the devastation, the electrical infrastructure that supplies sections of St Elizabeth needs to be completely rebuilt.

He added that in some areas, the network will need to be re-designed and lines relocated.

He also noted that the process is challenging and tedious due to difficult, rocky terrain.

Mr. Grant acknowledged the frustration of customers who are still without power, and sought to assure that the JPS is doing all it can to expedite the process.

This includes, acquiring additional equipment, collaborating with both local and overseas contractors, and redeploying resources from other parishes to focus on St. Elizabeth over the next few weeks.

He revealed that a team of line-men from Canada arrived in Jamaica yesterday, and these workers will join their Carilec colleagues, who are already supporting the local crews.

Mr. Grant said priority attention will be given to critical water pumps as well as educational institutions in St Elizabeth, during the rebuilding process.

He added that JPS members will also be doing outreach activities in affected communities in a bid to help ease residents discomfort.

So far, the JPS has restored power to about 98 percent of its customer base islandwide.