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ECS 04/2024 Preliminary Determination – Retail Fixed Market Review and Assessment
With this Preliminary Determination, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (‘URCA’) informs Licensees, other stakeholders, and the public in general of its preliminary economic assessment of the competitive dynamics in the retail fixed service market in The Bahamas. In this consultation paper, URCA sets out its preliminary views and proposals arising from its market reviews of the provisioning of key retail communications services in The Bahamas under section 39(1) of the Communications Act, 2009 (the ‘Comms Act’ or the ‘Act’) and any resulting ex-ante regulatory obligations for SMP operators. The services considered in this market review are as follows: • Retail fixed voice telephony service; • Retail fixed broadband services; and • Retail pay TV services (including cable television services). The full PDF can be found below.URCA 03/2023 – Revision of the Competition Guidelines
The Competition Guidelines set out URCA’s Competition Policy and are intended to assist
Licensees, and other interested persons, in understanding how the competition provisions would
apply in practice with regards to procedural and substantives aspects, and to determine if their
conduct are complying with these rules. They also provide guidance on how a competition
complaint may be submitted.
As part of this review, URCA has taken into account, amongst others, its experience from the
application of the Competition Guidelines to date, as the current state and foreseeable
developments in the ES and ECS, and competition guidelines adopted elsewhere. This is to ensure
that any insights gained from the practical applications of the Guidelines are taken into account
and that the converged Guidelines remain fit for purpose. Additionally, by reviewing competition
guidelines in other jurisdictions that share similar characteristics or with a well-established
Competition Law doctrine, URCA aims to align its Competition Guidelines with international best
practices.
The purpose of this consultation is to: (i) present URCA’s proposed revisions to the Competition
Guidelines; and to (ii) invite feedback from all relevant persons on the proposed revision.
URCA 03/2023 Revision of the Competition Guidelines
The Competition Guidelines set out URCA’s Competition Policy and are intended to assist
Licensees, and other interested persons, in understanding how the competition provisions would
apply in practice with regards to procedural and substantives aspects, and to determine if their
conduct are complying with these rules. They also provide guidance on how a competition
complaint may be submitted.
The purpose of this consultation is to: (i) present URCA’s proposed revisions to the Competition
Guidelines; and to (ii) invite feedback from all relevant persons on the proposed revision.
ES 14/2023 – Guidelines for the Inspection of Licencees in the Electricity Sector
In exercise of the powers and duties conferred upon it by Section 38(3)(c) of the Electricity Act, 2015,
(“the EA”) the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) hereby issues the following
guidelines. These guidelines may be cited as the “Guidelines for The Inspection of Licensees in the
Electricity Sector” (the “Guidelines”).
URCA is mandated to carry out periodic inspections of licensees to ensure inter alia, compliance with
the EA, other competent legislation, and license conditions governing the operation of the of the
licensee.
URCA proposes that inspections not unduly disrupt the operation of the licensee. Hence, the intent of
the guidelines is to provide clarity on the process and requirements of the various parties involved in
the inspection.
The following sections describe the types of inspections to be carried out and provide further
information on the responsibilities of the licensee to facilitate the inspection.
ES 13/2023 Guidelines for the Inspection of Licencees in the Electricity Sector
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) hereby issues this Statement of
Results and Final Decision further to its public consultation on Guidelines for the Inspection of
Licencees in the Electricity Sector – ES 08/2023 (“the Consultation Document”), published on 16
November 2023.
The primary purpose of regulatory inspections is to independently provide a high level of
assurance that activities performed by the authorized party comply with the regulatory
requirements and with the conditions specified in the authorizing legislation or licence.
Inspections carried out in furtherance of this objective are typically periodically performed by the
regulatory body (or someone authorized by the body to do so).
This Statement of Results and Final Decision:
i. provides a background and high-level summary of URCA’s proposal to establish a regime
of regulatory inspection of licencees’ facilities.
ii. discusses submissions received to the public consultation on the Guidelines for Inspection
of Licencees in the Electricity Sector, (ES 08/2023),
iii. provides URCA’s response to the submissions made, and
iv. sets out URCA’s Final Decision.
- 21 Dec,2023
ES 12/2023 – Generation Licence
Generation licenceDownloads
- 21 Dec,2023
ES 11/2023 – Generation Licence
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (‘URCA’) hereby issues this Statement of
Results and Final Decision further to its public consultation on Generation Licences – ES 07/2023
(“the Consultation Document”), published on 06 October 2023.
Any person engaging in the generation of electricity in The Bahamas requires a licence1, unless
exempted by law.2 The role of URCA is the regulation of the Electricity Sector (“ES”) which
includes among other things, developing regulatory measures and issuing licencees.3 URCA
initially established a regime of licence types and exemptions for the ES in 2018 (ES 02/2018).
The Consultation Document (ES 07/2023) proposed to develop and introduce a new type of
licence to address persons engaged primarily in large self-supply, called a Generation Licence.
This Statement of Results and Final Decision;
i. provides a background and high-level summary of URCA’s proposal to establish a
Generation Licence.
ii. discusses submissions received to the public consultation on the Generation Licence, (ES
07/2023) issued on 06 October 2023 (the "Consultation Document”),
iii. provides URCA’s response to the submissions made, and
iv. sets out URCA’s Final Decision.
Downloads
ES 09/2023 Standard for Power Quality and Reliability in Electric Power Systems
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) is empowered to issue technical
rules and standards to advance the sector policy objectives.
1 This includes, but is not limited to,
standards of service, quality and safety of electricity service and equipment for the protection of
electricity consumers.
2 Electricity suppliers are required to incorporate such standards in their
consumer protection plans.
3
This Statement of Results and Final Decision;
i. provides a background and high-level summary URCA’s proposal concerning the Standard
for Power Quality and Reliability in Electric Power Systems
ii. summarizes the written submissions received to the public consultation on the Standard
for Power Quality and Reliability in Electric Power Systems, (ES 06/2023) issued on 27
September 2023 (the "Consultation Document”),
iii. provides URCA’s analysis of and response to the submissions made, and
iv. sets out URCA’s Final Decision.
ES 10/2023 Standard for Power Quality and Reliability in Electric Power Systems
Standard for Power Quality and Reliability in Electric Power Systems
- 16 Nov,2023
ES 05/2023 – Statement of Results – Consultation on the Integration of Battery Energy Storage Systems in the Energy Sector
In May 2023, URCA published its “Invitation for Comments and Contributions on Battery Storage Integration” (ES 03/2023) with a view to receiving input and comments from interested stakeholders on the matter of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)2. In this document, URCA provides the findings from its investigations to gain a fuller appreciation of public awareness of Battery Energy Storage Systems, the role that they play in renewable energy penetration and the available technologies. URCA thanks all those stakeholders that provided input. Their contributions are considered vital in understanding the market and identifying the next steps to advance the sector. ES 08/2023 – Guidelines for the Inspection of Licensees in the Electricity Sector
URCA is issuing this consultation in furtherance of Section 32 of the EA anent the “Inspection of Public Electricity Suppliers in the Family Islands” and section 40(6) of the EA regarding the inspection of “any electrical installation or apparatus of BPL or any other public electricity supplier”. The procedures, as set forth in these proposed guidelines, seek to establish the relevant entities to whom the inspections will apply as well as the scope, frequency, and format for the technical inspections of PESL and APESL, (special licensees), facilities for the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. The term “special licensees” refers to holders of either a Public Electricity Suppliers License (PESL) or an Authorized Public Electricity Suppliers License (APESL) and is used interchangeably with these terms. The guidelines seek to: • Establish the reasons for the performance of annual inspections. • Identify the entities to whom the inspections will apply along with exemptions where appropriate; • Describe the inspections and when they will be conducted along with the location of the inspections; and • Received feedback from stakeholders regarding the general format of the proposed inspections.ES 07/2023 Generation Licence Consultation Document
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) releases its Consultation Document on its Generation Licence regime. This Consultation Document is a continuation of the licensing regime that URCA established in 2018, wherein URCA signaled its intent to develop a Large Self-Supply Licence and a Transmission and Distribution Licence. However, rather than use the name of Large Self Supply Licence, URCA has chosen the wording “Generation Licence”. Among other things, the document:- sets out the background to the issuance of this Consultation Document;
- sets out the regulatory framework under which URCA has exercised its powers to issue this Consultation Document and grant the proposed ES licences and exemption determinations;
- sets out the types of licences previously established by URCA and the additional licence it proposes to grant in accordance with the EA;
- references the high-level terms and conditions that may be included in the types of licences URCA proposes to grant under the EA;
- sets out the statutory exemptions under the EA for the types of electricity generation that are not required to be licenced by URCA;
- sets out the “next steps” in the consultation process by URCA to the end of establishing the Generation Licence.
Downloads
- 02 Oct,2023
ECS 12/2023 Draft Outage Reporting and Mitigation Regulations for the Electronic Communications Sector in The Bahamas
URCA is seeking views from licensees, stakeholders, and other interested persons on the matters set out in this Consultation Document which, in the opinion of URCA, are of public significance. URCA considers the following to be the key objectives of this consultation process: • to set out URCA’s proposed Regulations; • to set out URCA’s rationale for the implementation of the proposed measures; • to set out URCA’s findings on international best practices on outage reporting and the current outage reporting practices of major Bahamian licensees; and • to invite written comments from stakeholders, licensees, and other interested persons. ES 06/2023 Standard for Power Quality and Reliability in Electric Power Systems
As service quality regulation is still evolving, a lighter touch to service standards is being adopted in those sectors where competition is maturing. However, in those sectors where industries are operating in monopolistic markets such as The Bahamas, the service standards being imposed by [URCA] are intended to ensure that the customer is supplied with a high-quality service that provides value for money.1 This Consultation Document is being issued to advance the following core objectives: • To support the electricity sector policy of, inter alia the provision of “a safe reliable supply of electricity” and the advancement of the EA 2015mandate to, inter alia, promote good utility practice and to ensure that PES operate in accordance with consumer protection standards. • In compliance with the requirement of the EA 2015 for URCA to issue regulations on the standard of service and quality of electricity supply systems and equipment. • To provide guidance to PESL and APSEL with respect to the provision of service standards in accordance with section 29 of the PESL and 28 of the APESL licenses. • To protect the interests of consumers connected to the grid and provide guidance on the expected voltage, frequency and other technical deviations that may be expected when connecting to the grid. • To reestablish standards for the supply of electricity which were applied under legislation prior to the 2015 ES regulatory regime.
ECS 11/2023 2023-2026 Draft ECSP Consultation
The purpose of this consultation, therefore, is to invite comments from interested persons on the draft revised ECS Policy. When completed, this policy document will reflect the Government’s overall plans for the ECS in The Bahamas, and input from all key stakeholders received in response to this consultation will be taken into consideration prior to publishing the new 2023 – 2026 Electronic Communications Sector Policy. URCA invites comments and submissions on this consultation document from members of the public, licensees and other interested parties. Responses to this consultation should be submitted to URCA not later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, 23 October 2023. The full PDF can be found below.Downloads
ECS 10/2023 URCA ECS Consultation Revised 2023 Consumer Protection Regulations
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (‘URCA’) issues this consultation document on its proposed revisions to the Consumer Protection Regulations (ECS 19/2013) for the electronic communications sector (ECS). The Consumer Protection Regulations (‘Regulations’) were originally published on 30 December 2013 followed by revised document referred to as Version 1.0.1 published on 7 February 2014.1 Given the time that has passed since the Regulations were published, changes that have occurred in the sector markets, and URCA’s experience with handling consumer complaints since 2013, URCA’s proposed revisions intend to: • make the Regulations up-to-date and fit for purpose; • clarify ambiguous Parts of the Regulations; and • issue new measures in areas where consumers were not protected. The objectives of this consultation are to: (i) present URCA’s proposed revisions to the Regulations; (ii) invite feedback from the public on the proposed revisions; and (iii) invite comments on Parts of the Regulations that were not included in the proposed revisions. When submitting responses, URCA urges respondents to provide supporting explanations in their submissions. URCA will then review the responses received and publish a Statement of Results on the consultation along with the final Regulations.- 05 May,2023
ECS 06/2023 5G Public Consultation
In this Consultation Document, URCA now presents its findings and insights obtained from the engagment with stakeholders and sets out its recommendation and next steps. URCA invites all interested persons to respond to this Consultation Document. Figure 6 below illustrates URCA’s objectives in conducting this consultation process. URCA invites responses to this Consultation Document from all stakeholders and interested person. Please note that responses to this Consultation Document must be submitted to URCA on or before 5 p.m. on Monday, 5 June 2023. Written responses or comments on this Consultation Document should be sent to URCA’s Director of Electronic Communications, either: • by hand, to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau; or • by mail to P.O. Box N 4860, Nassau, Bahamas; or • by fax, to (242) 393-0153; or • by email, to info@urcabahamas.bs. A copy of the document can be found below. URCA_ECS 06_2023 5G Public ConsultationDownloads
ES 02/2023 Bakers Bay Utility Limited Proposed Tariff Amendment Consultation Document
The purpose of this Consultation Document is to present URCA’s analysis of Bakers Bay Utility Limited's (BBUC) tariff amendment proposal in accordance with the principles, methodologies and procedures outlined in URCA’s tariff regulatory framework (ES 07/2021)1 and to elicit input from all stakeholders. URCA invites comments on this document from all interested parties. Responses to this document should be submitted to URCA by 5:00 p.m. on 14 April 2023. Written responses or comments on this document should be sent to URCA’s Chief Executive Officer, either:- By hand, to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau;
- By mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas;
- By fax, to (242) 393-0153; or
- By email, to info@urcabahamas.bs
- 21 Dec,2022
URCA Draft Annual Plan 2023 (URCA/2023)
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) is pleased to publish its Draft Annual Plan and Budget for 2023 (URCA/2023). This document outlines: A brief review of URCA’s achievements in 2022; URCA’s focus areas and key priorities for 2023; URCA’s key projects for 2023, including its planned consultation schedule for the year; A series of the key performance indicators which URCA shall use to measure its performance during the year; and URCA’s budget for the upcoming financial year. The Draft Annual Plan can be found here. URCA invites and welcomes comments and submissions from members of the public, licensees and other interested parties on the matters contained in this Draft Annual Plan. The timeline and steps for responses to this Draft Annual Plan are as follows: All submissions to this consultation should be submitted by 5pm on 10 February 2023; URCA will publish the responses to this Consultation along with its Statement of Results and Final Decision by 5:00 pm on or before 17 March 2023; and URCA intends to publish the final version of its annual plan by 30 April 2023. As part of the consultation on this draft Annual Plan, URCA will hold at least one stakeholder forum to present the draft Annual Plan and to allow key stakeholders (licensees, government agencies, and civil society) an opportunity to provide input. URCA has tentatively scheduled a virtual forum for 2 February 2023. Written submissions or comments on the Draft Annual Plan should be addressed to URCA’s Chief Executive Officer with the subject line, “URCA draft Annual Plan”. Submission can be made by:- hand, to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau;
- mail, to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas; or
- fax, to 242 393 0237; or
- email, to info@urcabahamas.bs
URCA Renewable Energy Self Generation (RESG) System Application
URCA Small Scale Renewable Generation (SSRG) Commercial System Application
URCA's Small Scale Renewable Generation (SSRG) Commercial System Application is available below for download.- 25 Mar,2022
ECS 01/2022 Preliminary Determination Retail Cellular Mobile Market Review and Assessment under Section 39(1) and (2) of the Communications Act, 2009
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) issued a Preliminary Determination on its Retail Cellular Mobile Market Review and Assessment in accordance with Section 39(1) of the Communications Act, 2009. The exercise fulfills the Regulator’s statutory mandate to complete periodic reviews of the country’s mobile sector and is the first such review since mobile liberalization in 2016. URCA highlights the aim of the consultation as follows: • To identify the scope of the relevant market for retail mobile service; • To identify Licensees that are singly or jointly dominant in the relevant market; • To assess whether or not to impose, amend, or withdraw regulatory obligations relating to retail mobile services; and • To invite written comments on URCA’s review and provisional findings. URCA now invites written feedback from Licensees and other segments of Bahamian society on its preliminary findings and supporting arguments as set out in sections 4 and 5. - 20 Oct,2021
ES11/2021 Cost-Effectiveness Tariff Policy for Renewable Energy Self-Generation Projects RESG and SSRG
This consultation document sets out for consultation with interested stakeholders proposed revised Economic Cost-Based Tariff or Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) methodology and policy for Renewable Energy Self-Generation (RESG) projects advanced by the Government and small-scale business or commercial enterprises.The objectives of the consultation are to present and discuss - • The proposed RESG cost-based rate-setting • The approaches to Renewable Energy tariff rate-setting, • The proposed methodology for calculating cost-based rates, the data collection approach, and the proposed indicative tariff rates • The cost-effectiveness analysis, findings to gather feedback from stakeholder.
URCA invites and welcomes comments from licensees, members of the public and interested parties on the matter set out in this consultation document. Such comments must be received by URCA within thirty (30) calendar days from the publication of this consultation document. The deadline for receiving written comments is 5:00 pm on 18 November 2021. The full consultation document can be found here. URCA 03/2021 – URCA’s Standard Consultation Procedures – Consultation Document
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has released its updated Standard Consultation Procedures (SCP) and made them available for public consultation. The SCP document sets out URCA’s proposed policy, guidelines and procedure for engaging relevant stakeholders in consultation for regulatory and decision making measures moving forward. Public consultation of this document, which is available through URCA’s website, runs through September 23rd 2021.- 09 Jul,2021
ES 08/2021 URCA Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Scheme for Disputes between Licensees and Independent Power Producers for the Electricity Sector in The Bahamas
URCA issues this consultation document on the draft ADR Scheme for the ES which is encapsulated in the Rules annexed to this consultation document (“the Draft Rules”). URCA proposes to apply the Draft Rules to licensees who have been issued a Public Electricity Supplier License (“PESL”), Authorised Public Electricity Supplier License (“APESL”), or Independent Power Producer License (“IPPL”). The ADR scheme aims to provide practical guidance for the step-by-step handling of disputes between IPPs and licensees and should also inform the parties to a dispute of the level of response and action to be expected from URCA in the ADR process. In this consultation process, URCA is focused on establishing a scheme that is objective, fair, timely, transparent, and suitable to the relevant dispute so that parties can be confident that their dispute will be effectively and efficiently resolved. ECS 08/2021 – Request for Applications – FM Radio Broadcast Frequencies
The Utilities Regulations and Competition Authority (URCA) issues this document comprising a Request for Applications (RFA) for an Individual Spectrum Licence (ISL) to use the frequency 90.7 MHz or 105.7 MHz in the FM Radio Broadcast Band (88 MHz – 108 MHz) to provide FM radio broadcast service in the island of New Providence, Bahamas.- 14 Apr,2021
ECS 02/2021 First Round Responses the Review of Wholesale Broadband Access Services Preliminary Determination
On 26 February 2021, URCA launched a two-round consultation process in respect of the subject matter. We have completed the first round of consultation, and now we wish to invite written comments on the views of the first-round respondents. ECS 06/2020 Be Aliv and Cable Bahamas Response to URCA Draft Annual Plan 2021
Be Aliv Limited (Aliv) and Cable Bahamas Ltd. (CBL) thank The Utilities Regulation & Competition Authority (URCA) for the opportunity to comment on its draft annual plan for 2021. The work carried out by URCA has a significant impact on the consumers and operators in the regulated sectors, and we appreciate being able to provide our views on the work to be carried out by URCA during 2021. Aliv and CBL hope that these comments will assist URCA in finalising its programme of work. We do not comment on the work done or proposed for the electricity sector.ECS 06/2020 BTC Response to URCA Draft Annual Plan 2021
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company Limited (BTC) welcomes the opportunity to respond to the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority’s (URCA) Draft Annual Plan for 2021 (the “Draft Annual Plan”).- 19 Mar,2021
ECS 04/2021 CONSULTATION DOCUMENT FOR CABLE BAHAMAS LIMITED’S APPLICATION FOR THE REPACKAGING OF REVTV OFFERS
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (‘URCA’) received applications from Cable Bahamas Limited (‘CBL’) requesting URCA’s approval to restructure its REVTV offers for residential and business pay television subscribers. The application for residential REVTV offers was submitted on 27 October 2020 followed by the application for business REVTV offers on 20 January 2021. CBL’s repackaging entails a net reduction in the number of channels for REVTV PRIME (residential and business), the movement of several channels between existing packages, and the creation of several ‘add-on’ packages targeted towards specific audiences.Downloads
CONSULTATION DOCUMENT FOR CABLE BAHAMAS LIMITED’S APPLICATION FOR THE REPACKAGING OF REVTV OFFERSAnnex A - CBL Repackaging Application for Residential Subscribers Annex B - CBL Repackaging Application for Business Subscribers Annex C - Complete Channel Listings of Existing and Proposed Packages for CBL RepackagingWhat you Need to know? - 10 Mar,2021
ES 02/2021 Proposed Tariff Review Framework, Guidelines and Procedures for Public Electricity Suppliers
The purpose of this consultation document is to present a framework, and an outline of the principles, methodologies and procedures that URCA proposes to use in the rate-setting exercise and to elicit comments and inputs from all stakeholders. The objectives of the Tariff Review function include:- Protecting consumers from paying more than necessary so that they pay only that which is a fair, just, and reasonable amount for the services they receive and commodities they consume.
- Ensuring that utility providers charge only that which is necessary and to receive a fair rate of return on their investment.
- 26 Feb,2021
ECS 02/2021 Review of draft wholesale Dedicated Internet Access reference offers from BTC and CBL under Sections 39 and 40 of the Communications Act, 2009
In this document, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority ("URCA") invites interested parties to review and comment on The Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd. ("BTC") and Cable Bahamas Ltd. ("CBL") proposed terms and conditions for their regulated wholesale Dedicated Internet Access ("WDIA") services, as set out in their published draft WDIA reference offers. ES 01/2021 Preliminary Determination and Draft Order on BPL Renewable Energy Plan 2020
The Government of The Bahamas intends for renewable energy to form a significant portion of the power consumed in the country. The target is 30% renewables by 2030. This renewable energy will offset that currently generated from fossil fuels. Part V of the Electricity Act, 2016 (EA) mandates public electricity suppliers (PES) to produce a renewable energy plan. The plan will set out how sustainable renewable energy technologies will be introduced into the electricity supply system in a timely manner. In compliance with this requirement, the Bahamas Power and Light (BPL), a PES, has submitted its Renewable Energy Plan, 2020 (REP). As required by the EA, particularly section 25, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has made a preliminary determination to approve the REP as set out in the attached document, ES 01/2021.- 19 Nov,2020
ECS: 16/2020 Addendum to Market Information Reporting Requirements for Specified Licensees in the Electronic Communications Sector (“ECS 28/2017”)
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority ("URCA") issues this consultation document on the proposed addendum to the Market Information Reporting Requirements for Specified Licensees in the Electronic Communications Sector (ECS 28/2017)[1] issued on 20 December 2017. In accordance with ECS 28/2017, licensees are required to, inter alia, collect and report market data on a broad range of electronic communications services, collect and report market data on a granular/disaggregated level, and submit the reports to URCA in respect of the data collected on a quarterly and annual basis. Subsequently, in its Annual Report 2019 and Annual Plan 2020, URCA identified the need for more appropriate and meaningful methods of measuring its performance. To that end, URCA initiated the URCA Organizational Performance Indicator (OPI) Development Project and has developed a set of organisational performance indicators ("OPIs") intended to ensure that the regulatory work that it undertakes is more effective, relevant, timely and impactful when addressing industry needs, consumer preferences and government policy objectives. In order to satisfy the OPIs, the organisation would need to use a blend of current and additional market information, amongst other information. Therefore, the purpose of this addendum is to require licensees in the ECS to provide additional data needed to implement URCA's OPIs. If needed, URCA will consult separately on OPIs for the ES. In this public consultation document, URCA:- outlines the rationale for collecting and reporting of additional market data from licensees in the ECS; and
- invites feedback from the affected licensees and other interested parties regarding the rationale for collecting and reporting additional market data based on URCA's proposals.
- 28 Sep,2020
ES 11/2020 CONSUMER PROTECTION REGULATIONS FOR THE ELECTRICITY SECTOR IN THE BAHAMAS CONSULTATION DOCUMENT
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (‘URCA’) is the independent regulator and competition authority for the Electricity Sector (ES) in The Bahamas. URCA is responsible for the licensing of all generation, transmission, distribution and supply of electricity within, into, from or through The Bahamas. URCA regulates the ES through the Electricity Act, 2015 (EA), which includes, inter alia, the functions and powers to issue regulatory and other measures to regulate the sector. URCA issues this consultation document on the draft Consumer Protection Regulations for the Electricity Sector in The Bahamas (‘the Draft Regulations’). URCA proposes to apply the Draft Regulations to licensees who have been issued a Public Electricity Suppliers Licence (PESL) or an Authorised Public Electricity Suppliers Licence (APESL). The objectives of the Draft Regulations include, but are not limited to, the following:- to provide guidelines relating to specific practices of the mentioned licensees, including contract terms, billings and complaints handling;
- outline the obligations and responsibilities that are conferred on consumers when utilising electricity supply services provided by licensees;
- propose a series of reporting requirements on the licensees so that URCA can survey the effectiveness of the ES Consumer Protection Regulations when implemented, and take appropriate action to address any deficiencies consequential to their application in the ES.
ES 11/2020 CONSUMER PROTECTION REGULATIONS FOR THE ELECTRICITY SECTOR IN THE BAHAMAS
URCA issues this consultation document on the draft Consumer Protection Regulations for the Electricity Sector in The Bahamas (‘the Draft Regulations’). URCA proposes to apply the Draft Regulations to licensees who have been issued a Public Electricity Suppliers Licence (PESL) or an Authorised Public Electricity Suppliers Licence (APESL). The objectives of the Draft Regulations include, but are not limited to, the following:- to provide guidelines relating to specific practices of the mentioned licensees, including contract terms, billings and complaints handling;
- outline the obligations and responsibilities that are conferred on consumers when utilising electricity supply services provided by licensees;
- propose a series of reporting requirements on the licensees so that URCA can survey the effectiveness of the ES Consumer Protection Regulations when implemented, and take appropriate action to address any deficiencies consequential to their application in the ES.
- 18 Sep,2020
ECS 12/2020 Disaster Management Regulations for the Electronic Communications Sector in The Bahamas (Second Round)
On 6 April 2020, URCA published a consultation document under the caption Disaster Management Regulations for the Electronic Communications Sector in The Bahamas, which is referred to as ECS 03/2020 (the “First Consultation on Disaster Management Regulations”). The full text of ECS 03/2020 is available on URCA’s website. The purpose of the First Consultation on Disaster Management Regulations was to propose regulations for disaster management in the Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) in The Bahamas. This document may be cited as the Second Consultation Document on Disaster Management Regulations for the Electronic Communications Sector in The Bahamas (ECS 12/2020) (the “Second Consultation on Disaster Management Regulations”). - 17 Aug,2020
ECS 09/2020 Consultation on the proposed changes to the Reference Access and Interconnection Offer published by The Bahamas Telecommunications Company Limited
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) issues for consultation a review of the changes The Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd. (“BTC”) proposes to make to the Reference Access and Interconnection Offer (“RAIO”). A RAIO sets out the price and non-price terms and conditions under which an SMP[1] operator like BTC will permit Other Licensed Operators (“OLOs”) to physically interconnect with its network. Non-price terms and conditions in a typical RAIO include clauses relating to dispute resolution, termination and suspension, service level agreements, the inclusion of new services, liability, non-payment and billing disputes, the technical requirements/specifications, and Quality of Service metrics for interconnection services. Pursuant to sections 39 and 40 of the Communications Act, 2009 (referred to herein as “the Comms Act” or “the Act”), BTC was designated as having SMP in specified retail and wholesale markets and is therefore subject to SMP obligations including the requirement to permit interconnection to its network on fair, reasonable, transparent and non-discriminatory terms and conditions.[2] One of URCA’s mandate is to approve terms and conditions of reference offers that are compatible with the statutory framework of the Act and other regulatory measures. The Act also requires URCA to consult with interested parties and stakeholders on matters of public significance. - 17 Jun,2020
ECS 04 2020 First Round Responses to the Review of Wholesale Broadband Access Services Preliminary Determination
Today, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) published on its website the first-round responses received to its Preliminary Determination on the Review of Wholesale Broadband Access Services under Sections 39 and 40 of the Communications Act, 2009 (ECS 04/2020). On 27 April 2020, URCA launched a two-round consultation process in respect of the captioned regulatory measure. With the publication of first-round responses on its website, URCA now invites written comments on the views expressed by BTC, CBL, Coakster Wireless, Global Nexus, Last Mile Communications, Secure Hosting, and Wicom Bahamas Ltd. in their first-round responses on the Preliminary Determination. Copies of the Preliminary Determination and all first-round responses may be downloaded here.Downloads
BTC Response to the Review of Wholesale Broadband Access Services Preliminary DeterminationCBL Response to the Review of Wholesale Broadband Access Services Preliminary DeterminationCoakster Wireless Response to the Review of Wholesale Broadband Access Services Preliminary DeterminationGlobal Nexus Response to the Review of Wholesale Broadband Access Services Preliminary DeterminationLast Mile Communications Response to the Review of Wholesale Broadband Access Services Preliminary DeterminationSecure Hosting Response to the Review of Wholesale Broadband Access Services Preliminary DeterminationWicom Bahamas Ltd. Response to the Review of Wholesale Broadband Access Services Preliminary Determination - 27 Apr,2020
ECS 04/2020 Preliminary Determination Review of Wholesale Broadband Access Services under Sections 39 and 40 of the Communications Act, 2009
Following its review of the resale fixed broadband offer (“BRO”) obligation (ECS 09/2018),1 and as indicated in its Annual Plan for 2018,2 the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) has conducted a review of Wholesale Fixed Access (“WFA”) services to better understand the current demand for and provisioning of these services in The Bahamas. As part of its review, URCA has considered the wider set of WFA services, such as wholesale business connectivity services and wholesale broadband access (“WBA”) services. URCA has collected further feedback from key stakeholders within this process, particularly via discussions with access seekers in The Bahamas and subsequent information requests it has sent to specified licensees. These access seekers are hereafter referred to as Other Licensed Operators (“OLOs”) and include all licensed providers other than The Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd. (“BTC”) and Cable Bahamas Ltd. (“CBL”). Based on this feedback, URCA has concluded that this review should focus on WBA services, and in particular, wholesale Dedicated Internet Access (“DIA”) services.3 As further set out in the remainder of this Preliminary Determination, URCA considers that wholesale DIA services form part of the WBA market previously defined by URCA. Given this, and taking into account the Significant Market Power (“SMP”) findings set out in ECS 09/2018, this document, therefore, has the following objectives: to set forth URCA’s preliminary findings on whether there is a need to impose additional SMP obligations in the WBA service market(s) in The Bahamas (i.e., whether BTC and CBL, as dominant providers in the respective geographic markets for WBA services, should be required to provide wholesale DIA services on regulated terms), and the rationale for URCA’s proposed intervention; to set forth URCA’s specific proposed SMP obligations for the market(s); and to invite comments from stakeholders on URCA’s proposals. 1.1 - 06 Apr,2020
ECS 03/2020 Disaster Management Regulations for the Electronic Communications Sector in The Bahamas
The purpose of this Consultation Document is to propose regulations for disaster management in the Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) in The Bahamas. In this Consultation Document, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) identifies Critical Electronic Communications Infrastructure (CECI) in the ECS in The Bahamas and proposes regulations to provide for the resilience and restorative ability of the CECI. Resilient and rapidly restorative CECI improves the probability that the CECI will be available to facilitate preparedness, recovery, and restoration before, during, and after a disaster emergency in The Bahamas.[1] - 02 Apr,2020
ES 05/2020 DRAFT PROCUREMENT REGULATIONS FOR ELECTRICITY SECTOR LICENSEES, 2020 FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) is the independent regulator and competition authority for the electricity sector in The Bahamas[1]. The primary role of URCA is the regulation of the sector in accordance with the goals, objectives, and principles underpinning the national energy and electricity sector policies.[2] Fundamental to these are the encouragement of competition and the provision of least-cost electricity supplies to consumers[3], which means charges must be reasonable and reflect efficiently incurred costs.[4] As licensees primarily incur costs through their procurement activities, URCA has drafted regulations to address the same. Per the requirements of the Electricity Act 2015 (“EA”), URCA has a duty to consult on such matters.[5] Accordingly, this document sets out, for public consultation, draft procurement regulations for licensees within the electricity sector. URCA intends for the proposed measures to be efficient and proportionate to their purpose, fair, and non-discriminatory. As such, URCA is seeking feedback from stakeholders on all aspects of the draft regulations. The consultation will close at 5:00 p.m. on 5 May 2020. 1.1 How to Respond to this Consultation Document URCA invites written comments from members of the public, licensees and interested parties on the draft regulations set out in this consultation document. Submissions must be made in writing, addressed to the Director Utilities and Energy, and delivered:- by hand to Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority, Frederick House, Frederick Street, New Providence, Bahamas; or
- by email to cantonio@urcabahamas.bs; or
- by facsimile to (242) 393-0237.
- Include your name;
- Name of your organization (if applicable);
- Email address (preferred) or other suitable contact information; and
- Reference each response to the associated question or section of the draft regulations to which your comment is related.
- In your response to a question or section, if you do not agree with the content or position state the reason why and propose any amendments to that section.
- 27 Feb,2020
ES 02/2020 Consultation on Public Electricity Supply Licensees Reporting Obligations Procedures and Guidelines
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) in addition to reviewing and setting tariffs, is required to continuously monitor the operational performance and results of the regulated Licensees. URCA is therefore required to assess, monitor and evaluate the performance of the Public Electricity Suppliers (PES) towards achieving the overall energy policy goals of the Government of The Bahamas (GoB). The purpose of this consultation document is to develop the framework and define the parameters which can be used by URCA to assess, monitor and evaluate the operational performance of the PES, towards achieving the overall energy sector policy goals and electricity sector policy and objectives. URCA is issuing this consultation pursuant to section 38(1)(k) of the Electricity Act, 2015 (“EA”); Part C – Reporting Obligations, Condition 24 of the Public Electricity Suppliers Licence (PESL) and Condition 23 of the Authorized Public Electricity Suppliers Licence (APESL). The procedures and guidelines seeks to establish the scope, format and the frequency in which specified licensees in the electricity sector are obligated to submit information requirements to URCA. The term “specified licensees” refers to holders of either a Public Electricity Supply Licence (PESL) or an Authorised Public Electricity Licence (APESL.). URCA 01/2020 CONSUMER PROTECTION (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) is the independent regulator and competition authority for the Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) and the Electricity Sector (ES) in the Bahamas, with powers under the Communications Act, 2009 (“Comms Act”) and the Electricity Act, 2015 (EA) to inter alia, issue regulatory and other measures and monitor and enforce consumer protection standards and conditions. URCA issues this consultation document in accordance with Part VIII of the Comms Act and Section 40 of the EA. This document comprises URCA’s draft Consumer Protection Regulations (“the Regulations”) for the ECS and the ES which will be applicable to those Licensees who have been issued Individual Operating Licences (IOL), Class Operating Licences Requiring Registration (COLRR), and Public Electricity Suppliers (PES). These Regulations also relate to the protection of consumers and the obligations conferred on such persons when either subscribing to or utilizing electronic communications services or electricity services. URCA has posed specific questions under this consultation document and therefore invite comments from members of the public, licensees and stakeholders during this consultation process.- 02 Jan,2020
ECS 74/2019 Second Round Responses to the Consultation on Wholesale Fixed and Mobile Termination Rates for SMP Licensees
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today published the second round of responses to the Wholesale Fixed and Mobile Termination Rates for SMP Licensees Consultation. Copies of the responses are available for download below ECS 74/2019 Wholesale Fixed and Mobile Termination Rates for SMP Licensees
In this document, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) issues its Final Determination on forward-looking, cost-oriented rates for wholesale fixed and mobile termination services in The Bahamas. Taking into account the time it will take to derive forward-looking cost-oriented rates, the elapsed time since the current rates were set, and the prevailing level of these rates, URCA has also assessed, and concluded on, the merits of setting interim termination rates, prior to moving to full cost orientation. URCA issued the Preliminary Determination for this consultation on 12 September 2019. That document had the following core objectives:- to set out the appropriate framework for setting forward-looking, cost-oriented termination rates in The Bahamas, taking into account both theoretical and practical considerations;
- to assess the merits of setting interim termination rates until the forward-looking, cost-oriented rates are available;
- to set forth the proposed interim termination rates, informed by a benchmarking exercise; and
- to invite comments from stakeholders on URCA’s proposals.
- Be Aliv Limited (“Aliv”);
- Bahamas Telecommunications Company Limited (“BTC”); and
- Cable Bahamas Limited (“CBL”).
- 23 Dec,2019
ECS 73/2019 Guidelines for Digital Transition: Identification of Available Digital Dividend Spectrum
The Communications Act, 2009 (Comms Act), grants the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA), the exclusive authority to manage, allocate, and assign radio frequency spectrum in The Bahamas. The evolution of digital technology in the television broadcasting service has availed an opportunity for URCA to advance the objective of the Electronic Communication Sector Policy as it relates to the efficient use of the radio spectrum. The purpose of this Final Decision is to introduce the framework for digital switchover in the Bahamas and identify the available digital dividend spectrum. Digital dividend spectrum refers to the spectrum in the frequency bands from 174 to 230 MHz ( VHF) and from 470 to 862 MHz (UHF), which is freed when a terrestrial television broadcasting service transitions from analogue to digital technology. In the past decade, one of the most important spectrum management issues for developed and industrialized countries has been the digital switchover (DSO). DSO involves the transition from analogue terrestrial television broadcasting to digital terrestrial television broadcasting (DTTB), the purpose of which is to free up spectrum for existing and emerging wireless broadband communications services. The issue of DSO is relevant to The Bahamas because the national electronic communications industry sources wireless communication equipment from global providers that no longer manufactures analogue devices. For this reason, URCA must identify and provide spectrum for existing and emerging wireless broadband communications services. To address issues expressed by its member states concerning DSO, The ITU published the Guidelines for Transition from Analogue to Digital Broadcasting (the “Guidelines”) in January 2010.1 According to the Guidelines: …broadcasting [is] one of the most economic and influential media to deliver content such as news, education and entertainment and to be able to contribute to narrowing the digital divide is now on the verge of a revolution which is expected to affect not only broadcasting itself but also other media. The Guidelines provide, inter alia: i. Options for policy and technology choices, and implementation guidelines; ii. Context, relevancy and impact of choices; iii. Cost/benefit analysis; and iv. Generic roadmaps and main activities Therefore, URCA is guided by the above-mentioned ITU recommendations in setting out the relevant framework for DSO and identifying the digital dividend spectrum. On 17 April 2018, URCA, in alignment with the above Guidelines, published its Statement of Results and Final Decision on the Proposal to Open Standard Spectrum Bands Currently Specified as Closed in the National Spectrum Plan (NSP) 2014 – 2017. Subsequently, URCA has identified available spectrum in line with the Guidelines. ECS 72/2019 Proposed Revision of The Code of Practice for Content Regulation
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) is the independent regulator of the Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) in The Bahamas with powers under the Communications Act, 2009 (Comms Act) to, inter alia, issue regulatory and other measures for the purpose of carrying into effect the Electronic Communications Policy objectives. URCA issues this consultation document in accordance with Part IX of the Comms Act and Clause 1.5 of the Code of Practice for Content Regulation (“the Code”). This consultation document comprises URCA’s proposed revisions to the Code, focused on Part 6 - Political Broadcasts and Political Advertisements, Part 7 – Advertising and Sponsorships, and Part 10 – Complaint Handling Process of the Code. The revisions also represent the combined work of URCA and the Content Regulation Industry Group (“CRIG”) which has been established under section 55 of the Comms Act. URCA therefore encourages the full participation of members of the public, licensees, stakeholders and other interested parties during this consultation process. 1.1 Background to this Consultation On 2 March 2012 URCA issued its Final Decision on the Code of Practice for Content Regulation1 (“the Code”) which were to be observed by Licensees providing audiovisual media services in The Bahamas. In 2018, URCA decided to undertake a review of the Code in accordance with its obligation under Clause 1.5 of the Code which requires URCA to formally review the Code after it has been in effect for three (3) years in consultation with the CRIG. In its internal deliberations URCA had itself identified challenges with Part 6 of the Code, which dealt with Political Broadcasts and Political Advertisements, Part 7 dealing with Advertising and Sponsorships, and Part 10 which contains the Complaints Handling Process administered by URCA under the Code. In June 2019, URCA convened a reconstituted CRIG to work with URCA on the review of the Code, consideration of the need for changes, and preparation of draft amendments where necessary. The review process continued until August 2019. During this period, the Industry Group was invited to consider URCA’s proposed revisions to Parts 6, 7 and 10 of the Code, in conjunction with standards of other jurisdictions and how such jurisdictions treat with similar content related issues. The CRIG was also invited to review the Code as a whole to determine and recommend to URCA any other part of the Code that should be revised. The Industry Group provided URCA with recommendations and written submissions on the proposed changes to the Code, which have been taken into consideration by URCA. 1.2 Responding to this Consultation URCA invites written comments and submissions from members of the public, licensees and interested parties on the issues in this consultation document. Persons may deliver their written comments or submissions to URCA’s Director of Electronic Communications either: · by hand, at URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street; · by mail, to P. O. Box N-4860; · by fax, to (242) 393-0237; or · by email, to info@urcabahamas.bs All comments to this consultation document should be submitted on or before 31 January 2020. URCA will acknowledge receipt of all responses. URCA’s preferred format for written responses is as follows: · Respondent’s name; · Name of organisation (or state whether respondent is a consumer); · Email address of respondent; · Responses to questions asked under this consultation document; and · Any other matters you believe URCA should consider under this consultation document. URCA reserves the right to make all responses available to the public by posting responses online on its website. Responses marked ‘confidential’ should provide reasons to simplify evaluation by URCA of the request for confidentiality. URCA may, in its sole discretion, choose whether to publish any confidential document or submission.- 23 Oct,2019
ECS 67/2019 Licencees Response to Wholesale Fixed and Mobile Termination Rates for SMP Licensees
Today, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) published on its website the first-round responses received to its Preliminary Determination on Wholesale Fixed and Mobile Termination Rates for SMP Licensees (ECS 67/2019). On 12 September 2019, URCA launched a two-round consultation process in respect of the captioned regulatory measure. With the publication of first-round responses on its website, URCA now invites written comments on the views expressed by BTC, CBL and Aliv in their first-round responses on the Preliminary Determination. ECS 67/2019 Wholesale Fixed and Mobile Termination Rates for SMP Licensees
In this document, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) sets out its preliminary views on how to determine forward-looking, cost-oriented rates for wholesale fixed and mobile termination services in The Bahamas. Taking into account the time it will take to derive forward-looking cost-oriented rates, the elapsed time since the current rates were set, and the prevailing level of these rates, URCA also assesses the merits of setting interim termination rates, prior to moving to full cost orientation. In particular, this document has the following core objectives: to set out the appropriate framework for setting forward-looking, cost-oriented termination rates in The Bahamas, taking into account both theoretical and practical considerations;1 to assess the merits of setting interim termination rates until the forward-looking, cost-oriented rates are available; to set forth the proposed interim termination rates, informed by a benchmarking exercise; and to invite comments from stakeholders on URCA’s proposals.- 06 Aug,2019
ECS 07/2019 Last Mile Communications Ltd Response to URCA’s consultation on a Framework for Establishment of Internet Exchange Points (“IXPs”) in The Bahamas
Last Mile Communications Ltd is herein providing its Initial Response to the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority's ("URCA") pursuant to the Public Consultation “Framework for Establishment of Internet Exchange Points (“IXPs”) in The Bahamas” (ECS 07/2019) issued 2 May 2019 (the “Consultation Document”). - 22 Jul,2019
ECS 07/2019 BTC Responds to Framework for Establishment of Internet Exchange Points (“IXPs”) in The Bahamas
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company Limited ("BTC") is herein providing its Initial Response to the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority's ("URCA") pursuant to the Public Consultation “Framework for Establishment of Internet Exchange Points (“IXPs”) in The Bahamas” (ECS 07/2019) issued 2 May 2019 (the “Consultation Document”). - 22 Jul,2019
ECS 07/2017 Cable Bahamas Response to URCA’s consultation on a Framework for the establishment of Internet Exchange Points (“IXPs”) in The Bahamas
Cable Bahamas Ltd. (CBL) is appreciative of the opportunity to respond to this Public Consultation. Below you will find the response of CBL on URCA’s consultation document on the framework for establishment of internet exchange points (“IXPs”) in The Bahamas (ECS 07/2019). - 22 Jul,2019
ECS 07/2019 URCA’s Consultation Questions for Framework for the establishment of Internet Exchange Points (“IXPs”) in The Bahamas
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) is inviting comments on the first-round responses received to its Consultation on the establishment of Internet Exchange Points (“IXPs”) in The Bahamas. - 05 Jul,2019
ECS 05/2019 Preliminary Determination Revise Licence Exempt Spectrum and Guideline for Type Approval of Licence Exempt Devices-Final
Issue Date – 5 July 2019 Response Date – 5 August 2019 The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) is the governing body of the new regulatory regime established under the Communications Act, 2009 (“Comms Act”) for electronic communications in The Bahamas. URCA is responsible for licensing persons who provide, operate or maintain an electronic communications network or provide an electronic communications service. URCA may levy a range of fees for its regulatory activities. URCA (after consultation) issued a Final Determination on 2 November 2009 (Consultation Document – ECS 24/2009) on the Class Licences, Exemptions & Types of Fees for the electronic communications sector in The Bahamas. That Final Determination set out the terms and conditions for class licenses, the criteria for license exemptions and the types of fees URCA can levy under the Comms Act. ES 04/2019 URCA Electricity Sector Alternative Dispute Resolution Guidelines
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority, (URCA), today published its proposed Alternative Dispute Resolution Guidelines for the Electricity Sector, (ES). The guidelines are issued pursuant to section 41 of the Electricity Act 2015, (EA). The consultation on the propose ADR Guidelines closes on the 19 July 2019. Written responses or comments on this Consultation Document should be sent to URCA’s Director of Utility and Energy, either:- by hand to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau;
- by mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas;
- by fax to (242) 393-0153; or
- by email to info@urcabahamas.bs.
- 02 May,2019
ECS 07/2019 – Framework for Establishment of Internet Exchange Points (‘IXPs’) in The Bahamas – Public Consultation
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) has published on its website, for comment, a consultation paper on a “Framework for Establishment of Internet Exchange Points (‘IXPs’) in The Bahamas.” IXPs are the technical points, infrastructure or facilities through which companies involved in the Internet connect with one another and exchange traffic. IXPs are central to the infrastructure for the Internet and digital economy in The Bahamas. URCA issued the consultation paper with the following core objectives in mind:- to promote public awareness of the contributions that IXPs can make to the development of the Internet and digital economy in The Bahamas;
- to alert potential IXP users of URCA’s proposals and recommendations; and
- ensure the regulatory framework is favorable for IXPs in The Bahamas to operate successfully.
- Initial responses must be submitted to URCA by 5 p.m. on 16 July 2019
- Reply comments must be submitted to URCA by 5 p.m. on 16 August 2019.
- by hand to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau;
- by mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas;
- by fax to (242) 393-0153; or
- by email to info@urcabahamas.bs.
URCA 2018 Annual Report and 2019 Annual Plan
Today, URCA published its 2018 Annual Report. An Oral Hearing to discuss said reports will be scheduled for a later date. The report can be downloaded by clicking on the PDF document below.ECS 02/2019 – Consultation on the National Spectrum Plan 2019 – 2022
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has published on its website, the consultation document for the National Spectrum Plan (2019 – 2022). Section 31(4) of the Communications Act (Comms Act) requires that the plan is revised every three years. The NSP is formulated in collaboration with the Government and is intended to further the objectives of the Electronic Communications Sector Policy. It establishes the methods URCA will employ to facilitate the use, management and monitoring of radio frequency spectrum in The Bahamas. A key feature of the NSP is the proposed reopening of the Standard Spectrum Bands which are currently specified as ‘closed’. URCA is of the view that the opening of spectrum bands will serve as an enabler for The Bahamas to take advantage of opportunities that could lead to economic and social growth by further developing the country’s communications infrastructure and ecosystem. The opening of the spectrum band will also facilitate new technological innovations as envisioned by the ITU and defined under the umbrella of the International Mobile Telecommunications 2020 (IMT-2020) and beyond. According to the ITU, IMT-2020 and beyond is a standard that will underpin the next generations of mobile broadband including, among other things, Internet of Things (IoT), 5G and other “Smart Cities” technologies. The NSP also sets the framework for URCA’s implementation of FM Broadcasting Technical Standards and its work on ICTs for Disaster Management Regulations, ICTs for Disabled Citizens and the Digital Switchover. Radio frequency spectrum is the medium by which radio, cellular and other wireless communications are transmitted between remote areas. It is used for thousands of applications critical to the existence of any country and the quality of life of its citizens. As a result, spectrum has been identified as a limited state resource/asset and must therefore be used efficiently and effectively so that it remains an available production input for service providers. The more common applications for spectrum use include:- Telecommunications;
- Aeronautical and maritime;
- Broadcasting (Audio & Video)
- Emergency services
- Medical electronics
- Remote control and monitoring
- By hand to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau; or
- By mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas;
- By fax to (242) 393-0153; or
- By email to info@urcabahamas.bs.
- 28 Feb,2019
URCA 01/2019 – URCA Fee Schedule 2019
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today issued its Fee Schedule 2019. The new Fee Schedule includes fees payable in 2019 related to URCA’s regulation of both the Electronic Communication Sector (ECS) and Electricity Sector (ES). The Fee Schedule established the revised URCA Fee for 2019, which is based on URCA’s draft Budget for 2018 published on 20 December 2018 (URCA 08/2018). Based on URCA Budget 2019 calculations, the ECS URCA Fee is set at 1.083% of relevant turnover, while the ES URCA Fee is set at .3902% of relevant turnover. Publication of the fee schedule is in accordance with section 8(1)(e) of the Communications Act, 2009. Interested persons may view the schedule on URCA’s website at www.urcabahamas.bs or pick up a copy from URCA’s office in Frederick House on Frederick Street, New Providence. Invoices will be issued to licensees in the usual manner. - 04 Dec,2018
ECS 12/2018 Statement of Results and Final Determination on Net Neutrality and OTT Services
The Utilities Regulation & Competition Authority (URCA) issues this Statement of Results and Position Statement on Net Neutrality and OTT Services in The Bahamas in accordance with sections 11 and 12 of the Communications Act, 2009 (Comms Act). This document marks the conclusion of the public consultation process on “URCA’s Preliminary Position on Net Neutrality and OTT Services in The Bahamas. Globally, the availability of OTT services has grown exponentially over the past ten years. The Bahamas has seen similar growth in the availability of OTT services and related innovations as the rest of the world. The increasing availability and demand for OTT services has created a dilemma for telecommunications regulatory authorities. On the one hand, the availability of OTT services advances the ECSP objectives by:- Promoting the availability of a wide range of content services which are of high quality; and
- Enhancing the efficiency of the Bahamian electronic communications sector and the productivity of the Bahamian economy.
- Promoting investment and innovation in electronic communications networks and services; and
- Promoting affordable access to high-quality networks and carriage services in all regions of The Bahamas.
- 13 Jul,2018
ECS 08/2018 Second Consultation Technical Standards Framework for FM Radio Broadcasting in The Bahamas
On 22 December 2015 the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) published its consultation document “Technical Standards Framework for FM Radio Broadcasting in The Bahamas – ECS 07/2015” (the First Consultation), setting out proposed technical standards mainly aimed at reducing harmful interference and improving the quality of reception in FM radio broadcasting. The First Consultation closed on 12 February 2016. In the First Consultation, URCA invited comments from interested parties on the matters set out therein, and URCA received three (3) responses to that consultation. URCA reviewed the comments of the respondents to the First Consultation and URCA again engaged expert technical consultants to undertake further technical work which is intended to address the substantive technical concerns raised by the respondent to the First Consultation. This Second Consultation on the Technical Standards Framework for FM Radio Broadcasting in The Bahamas – ECS 08/2018 (the Second Consultation) document advances technical work conducted by URCA and provide members of the public, licensees and interested parties with a further opportunity to comment on the proposed technical standards for FM radio broadcasting in The Bahamas and related matters. All of the responses under this Second Consultation process will be carefully considered and used by URCA for the development of the appropriate technical standards for FM broadcasting in The Bahamas. - 18 May,2018
ECS 05/2018 Final Determination and Order – Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd. and Be Aliv Limited Fixed Termination Charge Dispute
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today published a Final Determination and Order to the Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd. (‘BTC’) and Be Aliv Limited (‘Aliv’) (the Parties) relating to their interconnection rate dispute which was submitted to URCA by BTC on 15 August 2017. By way of background, Aliv’s mobile phone numbers are non-geographic. Therefore, numbers cannot be used to identify the point of call origination from Aliv’s mobile network. BTC contended that this makes it difficult for BTC to measure the volume of intra- and inter-island traffic from Aliv's subscribers to BTC's fixed subscribers and apply the correct fixed termination rates set out in Annex G.1 of the URCA-approved BTC Reference Access and Interconnection Offer (“RAIO”). BTC and Aliv were not able to agree on an appropriate approach to charging termination rates for these calls, and on 15 August 2017 BTC submitted a Notice of Dispute to URCA for resolution of the issue. Following consideration of BTC’s Notice of Dispute, Aliv’s response to the Notice, and detailed submissions by BTC and Aliv, URCA issued a Preliminary Determination and Draft Order (ECS 25/2017) on 5 December 2017 setting out its proposed findings and giving the Parties the opportunity to make representations or objections on or before 19 January 2018. URCA received submissions from both Parties. Consequential to its assessment of the submissions received, URCA issued its Final Determination and Order to BTC and Aliv on 3 May 2018 in which URCA made the following findings:- The BTC/Aliv Interconnection Agreement provides for two physical points of interconnection (POIs) between Aliv’s mobile network and BTC’s fixed network – one in New Providence and one in Grand Bahama. Aliv uses far-end handover for calls from its mobile network to BTC’s fixed subscribers. Far-end handover means that Aliv hands over the call to BTC at the POI closest to the network termination point of the called party, irrespective of which island the Aliv customer is on when making the call. This means that for an Aliv to BTC fixed call the intra-island termination rate applies where the BTC fixed line customer and the POI are on the same island.
- Given that Aliv uses far-end handover and its service numbers are non-geographic, a fair and reasonable application of Annex G.1 of the RAIO must take account of the location of the called party and the POI between BTC’s fixed network and Aliv’s mobile network.
- Because it is technically feasible for BTC to identify the island of the called party by the office code digits of the number, a blended rate is not required to resolve the Dispute. This method of identification along with the traffic management responsibilities established in the BTC RAIO provide a transparent and efficient framework for verifying billing outputs.
- The correct termination rate for an Aliv mobile call to a ViBe customer is 2.01 cents per minute.
- Aliv does not require a national call transit service to convey calls to BTC’s fixed subscribers.
- The Parties shall revise the interconnection payments resulting from any incorrect charges effective from December 2016 to present, based on the above findings.
- URCA requires both Parties to comply with the remedies outlined above within 30 calendar days from the issuance of this Order.
ES 05/2018 Preliminary Determination and Draft Order issued to Bahamas Power and Light
In the matter of: Suspected Breach of Licence Conditions 9, and 17.2 and Sections 25 and 26 under the Electricity Act, 2015 (ES 05/2018) The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today published a Consultation Document, which addresses suspected breaches in relation to BPL's obligation to furnish a renewable electricity plan and procedures for the procurement of utility scale renewable electricity generation within a defined period. This Public Consultation Document is listed under the above-captioned title as ES 05/2018 on URCA's website, www.urcabahamas.bs The objectives of this consultation document are as follows:- Set out the legal framework under which URCA has exercised its powers to issue this Preliminary Determination and Draft Order;
- Set out URCA's preliminary analysis regarding BPL's compliance or lack thereof with relevant licence conditions, the EA and regulatory measures to date;
- Set out the remedies URCA proposes to impose consequential to a determination that BPL failed or refused to comply with the Electricity Act, relevant licence conditions and regulatory measures;
- Set out URCA's Preliminary Determination and Draft Order in relation to the instant matter; and Seek input and feedback on URCA's recommendations and considerations from interested persons.
- URCA encourages all interested parties to make written submissions on the consultation. Initial responses to this Consultation Document should be submitted to URCA by 5 p.m. on 21 June 2018.
- 16 May,2018
ECS 10/2018 Draft Guidelines For Digital Transition: Identification of Available Digital Dividend Spectrum
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today published a Consultation Document under the caption Draft Guidelines For Digital Transition: Identification of Available Digital Dividend Spectrum. This Public Consultation Document is listed as ECS 10/2018. The objectives of this consultation document are as follows:- Set out URCA’s considerations regarding digital television broadcasting, including relevant technical standards and proposed spectrum use;
- Set out protocols proposed by URCA to ensure an effective and efficient means of transitioning from analog television broadcasting to DTTB recommended for ITU region 2 countries;
- Recommend an effective and efficient approach to the implementation of Digital Switchover (DSO);
- Identify key issues and the impact DSO is anticipated to have on stakeholders; and
- Seek input and feedback on URCA’s recommendations and considerations from interested persons.
- By hand, to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau; or
- By mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas; or
- By fax, to (242) 393-0153; or
- By email, to info@urcabahamas.bs.
URCA 2017 Annual Report and 2018 Annual Plan
Today, URCA published its 2017 Annual Report. An Oral Hearing to discuss said reports will be scheduled for a later date. The report can be downloaded by clicking on the PDF document below.Downloads
- 30 Apr,2018
Statement of Results and 2018 Annual Plan
Today, URCA published the Statement of Results on its Draft Annual Plan for 2018 and the final Annual Plan for 2018. The plan and statement of results documents can be downloaded by clicking on the PDF documents below. - 13 Apr,2018
ECS 03/2018 URCA’s Preliminary Position on Net Neutrality and OTT Services in The Bahamas
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today published a Consultation Document under the caption URCA’s Preliminary Position on Net Neutrality and OTT Services in The Bahamas. The Consultation Document is listed as ECS 03/2018. The objectives of this public consultation on URCA’s preliminary position on net neutrality and OTT services in The Bahamas are to:- set out and provide its analysis on the regulatory treatment of Net Neutrality and OTT services in other jurisdictions;
- outline its preliminary thinking on Net Neutrality and OTT services in The Bahamas;
- state the regulatory measures URCA proposes to adopt in relation to Net Neutrality and OTT services; and
- solicit written comments and suggestions from the wider public and stakeholders on URCA’s preliminary position.
- By hand, to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau; or
- By mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas; or
- By fax, to (242) 393-0153; or
- By email, to info@urcabahamas.bs.
- 02 Mar,2018
ECS 09/2017 Responses to Preliminary Determination on Review of Resale Broadband Obligations imposed on BTC and CBL
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today published the Initial Responses received to its Preliminary Determination on the “Review of the Resale Broadband Obligation imposed on BTC and CBL under Section 116 and Schedule 4 of the Communications Act, 2009” (ECS 09/2017). Copies of the Responses are available for download from URCA’s website at https://urcabahamas.bs/?post_type=consultations&p=4261&preview=true. In keeping with Section 1.3 of the Preliminary Determination, URCA invites interested parties, including the named licensees to submit written comments on same. Comments on the Responses should be submitted to URCA by 5 p.m. on 2 April 2018. Written comments on the Responses should be sent to URCA’s Chief Executive Officer, either:- By hand, to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau; or
- By mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas; or
- By fax, to (242) 393-0153; or
- By email, to info@urcabahamas.bs.
- 01 Feb,2018
URCA 01/2018 Fee Schedule 2018
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today issued its Fee Schedule 2018. The new Fee Schedule includes fees payable in 2018 related to URCA’s regulation of both the Electronic Communication Sector (ECS) and Electricity Sector (ES). The Fee Schedule established the revised URCA Fee for 2018, which is based on URCA’s draft Budget for 2018 published on 21 December 2017 (URCA 07/2017). Consistent with the decrease in URCA’s budget for 2018 as against 2017, the ECS URCA Fee for 2018 has been set at 0.945% of relevant turnover down from 1.248% in 2017, while the ES URCA Fee is set at 0.4059%, down from 0.4214% in 2017. Publication of the fee schedule is in accordance with section 8(1)(e) of the Communications Act, 2009. Interested persons may view the schedule on URCA’s website at www.urcabahamas.bs or pick up a copy from URCA’s office in Frederick House on Frederick Street, New Providence. Invoices will be issued to licensees in the usual manner.Downloads
- 21 Dec,2017
2018 Draft Annual Plan
Downloads
ECS 28/2017 Consultation on Measures for the Collection and Reporting of Market Data
Today, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) released its Statement of Results and Final Decision on the “Consultation on Measures for the Collection and Reporting of Market Data by Specified Licensees” (ECS 05/2017). The consultation stems from URCA’s authority under sections 8(1)(k) and (I) and section 5 of the Communications Act, 2009 (the “Comms Act”) and relevant licence conditions relating to market information. The consultation builds on a previous proposal by URCA to receive more frequent market information from licensees and the intent to improve URCA’s overall data collection practice and requirements. Simultaneously with the publication of the Statement of Results and Final Decision, URCA also publishes its “Market Information Reporting Requirements for Specified Licensees in the Electronic Communications Sector” (ECS 28/2017). This document sets forth URCA’s reporting format and requirements for market statistics and repeals, supersedes and replaces URCA’s current data collection practice. The requirements set out in this document cover the following communications activities:- provision of mobile voice and data services;
- provision of fixed telephony services;
- provision of fixed broadband and narrowband internet services;
- provision of pay TV services (include cable and IPTV); and
- provision of business data connectivity services including national and international leased circuits.
- 09 Nov,2017
ECS 18/2017 Proposal to Open Standard Spectrum Bands Currently Specified as ‘Closed’ in the National Spectrum Plan 2014-2017
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today published a Consultation Document under the caption Proposal to Open Standard Spectrum Bands Currently Specified as ‘Closed’ in the National Spectrum Plan 2014-2017 (ECS 03/2014). The Consultation Document is listed as ECS 18/2017. The objectives of this public consultation on the proposal to open standard spectrum bands currently specified as ‘closed’ in the national spectrum plan are to:- Identify the spectrum bands designated as ‘closed’ in the NSP;
- Propose a method of opening the ‘closed’ spectrum bands;
- Seek comments from interested persons, regarding URCA’s proposed opening of the ‘closed’ spectrum bands; and
- Open the “closed” bands based on the public’s interest and feedback from the industry.
- By hand, to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau; or
- By mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas; or
- By fax, to (242) 393-0153; or
- By email, to info@urcabahamas.bs.
ECS 09/2017 Review of the Resale Broadband Obligation imposed on BTC and CBL
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today published its Preliminary Determination on the Review of the Resale Broadband Obligation imposed on BTC and CBL under Section 116 and Schedule 4 of the Communications Act, 2009 (ECS 09/2017). This Preliminary Determination sets out URCA’s preliminary views on the prevailing need for The Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd. (“BTC”) and Cable Bahamas Ltd. (“CBL”) to continue to offer a resale fixed broadband product and the need for both operators to update their current product offerings to ensure these are fit-for-purpose and in line with market developments. Furthermore, this document has the following core objectives:- To set forth URCA’s preliminary findings of its SMP assessment of the market(s) for the provisioning of wholesale broadband services in The Bahamas.
- To set forth URCA’s proposed SMP obligations for each of these markets (i.e., the resale fixed broadband obligation), and the rationale for this proposed ex-ante regulatory remedy.
- To set forth the need for both SMP operators to review and revise their current resale fixed broadband products.
- To invite comments from stakeholders on URCA’s proposals.
- By hand, to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau; or
- By mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas; or
- By fax, to (242) 393-0153; or
- By email, to info@urcabahamas.bs.
- 15 Aug,2017
ES 05/2017 Consultation on Types of Licences and Exemptions for the Electricity Sector in the Bahamas
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) is the independent regulator and competition authority for the Electricity Sector (ES) pursuant to the Electricity Act, 2015 (EA). The EA establishes that the main goal of the electricity sector policy is the creation of a regime for the supply of safe, least-cost, reliable, and environmentally sustainable electricity throughout The Bahamas. URCA considers a clear and transparent licensing system, including exemptions where appropriate, is a necessary precondition for the attainment of this goal. URCA’s powers and functions are set out in the EA and include the power to grant licences with terms and conditions consistent with the EA and national energy and electricity sector policies. URCA has regulatory remit for licensing all persons who generate, transmit, distribute and/or supply electricity within, into, from or through The Bahamas. Section 46 of the EA empowers URCA to grant various types of licences to specific categories of persons and entities in the ES. There are certain exemptions (i.e. statutory exemptions) that are set out in section 23 of the EA. URCA may also, by determination, exempt persons from requiring a licence. Section 50 of the EA empowers URCA to grant an exemption to a person generally, unconditionally, or subject to conditions as URCA may specify in the determination. This Consultation Document relates to the licensing regime URCA intends to establish in accordance with the EA. It also provides in draft the types of licences URCA proposes to grant to persons in the ES and sets out the types of exemptions in the ES that URCA proposes. Once this consultation process is completed, all existing electricity providers and persons wishing to generate, transmit, distribute and/or supply electricity within, into, from or through The Bahamas will be required to obtain the appropriate licence from URCA, unless exempt in accordance with the EA or a determination issued by URCA. In this Consultation Document, except insofar as the context otherwise requires, words or expressions have the meaning assigned to them in the EA. This consultative document does not constitute legal, commercial, or technical advice and is without prejudice to the legal position of URCA or its rights and duties to regulate the ES generally. URCA now invites and welcomes written submissions and comments from interested parties with sufficient interest in the subject matter of this Consultation Document and the Annexes included herein. The written submissions and comments must be received by URCA within thirty (30) calendar days from the publication of this Consultation Document. The deadline for receiving written submissions and comments is 5:00 p.m. on 25 September 2017. The written submissions and comments should be submitted to URCA either:- by hand to: the Chief Executive Officer, Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority, Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau, Bahamas; or
- by email to: info@urcabahamas.bs; or
- by mail to: P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas or
- by facsimile to: (242) 393-0237.
ECS 06/2017 Central Office Code Assignment Update for THE BAHAMAS (Country Code +1 242)
The Communications Act, 2009 (Comms Act) establishes the law applicable to the Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) in The Bahamas. It empowers the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) as the independent regulator of the sector. The Comms Act charges URCA with the responsibility for implementing the Electronic Communications Sector Policy (ECSP) and enforcing the provisions of the Comms Act, which includes a duty to manage state assets such as numbering resources. In accordance with that duty, Section 79 of the Comms Act requires URCA to:- Publish a numbering plan for The Bahamas that is in compliance with applicable international numbering standards including the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA); and
- Make rules for the allocation and assignment of numbers to licensees.
- To advise interested parties that URCA has published the NNP;
- To present a brief overview of the NNP; and
- To update interested parties on the allocation of resources under the NNP.
- 31 Jul,2017
ECS 05/2017 Proposed amendments to the “Consultation on Measures for the Collection and Reporting of Market Data by Specified Licensee
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) hereby advises that it proposes to make amendments to the captioned consultation document and issue an addendum setting out the substantive changes it proposes to make to the ECS 05/2017 document. The 31 July 2017 deadline date for the submission of responses established under the ECS 05/2017 document will be extended to ensure that the consultation process is as comprehensive and inclusive as possible. In view of this, URCA will publish an addendum to the ECS 05/2017 document during the week of 30 July 2017 under which a new date for the submission of responses will be established for interested parties and the public to submit responses. URCA apologizes for any inconvenienced caused and thanks you for your usual cooperation. - 30 Jun,2017
ECS 05/2017 Consultation on Measures for the Collection and Reporting of Market Data by Specified Licensees in the Electronic Communications Sector
Today, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) published a public consultation document on its proposal to introduce new measures of collecting and reporting market information in the electronic communications sector. The full document is available for download from URCA’s website at www.urcabahamas.bs URCA is the official source of information on the Bahamian electronic communications sector for use by its stakeholders, including government departments, the private sector, academic institutions, international organizations, analysts and the public. URCA also requires information and market data to effectively discharge its functions and role under the Communications Act, 2009 (Comms Act). Therefore, in accordance with section 8(1)(k) of the Comms Act and relevant license conditions, URCA may require any licensee to furnish information and submit returns in relation to its operations at intervals as URCA may reasonably require. The consultation document sets out the new format for the collection and reporting of market information by specified licensees in the electronic communications sector, including providers of internet, pay TV services (include cable), fixed telephony, cellular mobile services and business connectivity services. URCA invites and welcomes all written representations from licensees, the general public and all interested parties on the matters set out in the ECS 05/2017 consultation document. The deadline for written submissions and comments is 5:00 pm on Monday 31 July 2017. Written submissions and comments should be submitted to URCA: 1. by hand to the Chief Executive Officer, Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority, Fredrick House, Fredrick Street, Nassau, Bahamas; or 2. by email to info@urcabahamas.bs; or 3. by mail P.O. Box N-860, Nassau, Bahamas; or 4. by facsimile to 393-0237. ES 04/2017 Public Consultation on BPL Consumer Protection Plan
Public Consultation on BPL Consumer Protection PlanES 02/2017 URCA’s response to BPL SSRG application and interconnection
On 13 December 2016, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) published an Initial Decision and Preliminary Determination in respect of URCA’s Review and Proposed Revisions to Bahamas Power and Light Limited (BPL)’s Small-Scale Renewable Generation (SSRG) Plan. In that document, URCA made certain decisions regarding the implementation of SSRG in The Bahamas, and required BPL to revise its SSRG Plan and present the revised Plan to URCA for approval. URCA has now completed its review of BPL’s revised SSRG Plan which was submitted to URCA by BPL in February 2017, and now issues its decision which incorporates the submissions received. URCA assessed BPL’s documents based on their compliance with URCA’s Initial Decision and Preliminary Determination, their completeness, and their clarity. BPL’s submission to URCA comprised the following documents: * BPL’s revised SSRG Plan * SSRG Interconnection Requirements Document * Draft SSRG Interconnection Agreement * Application form for SSRG systems. URCA found that the submission went some way to address the issues outlined by URCA in the Initial SSRG Decision, however all of the documents needed further revision to comply fully with URCA’s decision, improve clarity, and increase legibility. URCA has, in the interests of reducing the time that would be needed to finalise this process, revised the documents accordingly. This document sets out the main revisions which URCA has made to each of the documents submitted by BPL, and provide a brief explanation of why those changes were made.- 13 Apr,2017
URCA 05/2017 Statement of Results and Final Decision URCA Consultation Procedure Guidelines
This Statement of Results and Final Decision contains the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority's (URCA) review and final responses to the written submissions received on the “Draft URCA Consultation Procedure Guidelines” URCA 01/2016 (“The Consultation Document”) issued by URCA on October 13, 2016. URCA as the independent regulator and competition authority for the Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) and the Electricity Sector (ES) in The Bahamas issues this Statement of Results and Final Decision pursuant to the Communications Act, 2009 (Comms Act) and the Electricity Act, 2015 (Electricity Act). The Comms Act and the Electricity Act empower URCA to implement the Electronic Communications Sector Policy (ECSP), the National Energy Policy (NEP) and the Electricity Sector Policy (ESP), and in that regard to enforce the provisions of the Comms Act and the Electricity Act, respectively. This Statement of Results and Final Decision are part of the consultative process regarding the procedures which will be utilized by URCA to engage stakeholders in respect of various issues affecting the regulated sectors, licensees and consumers. ES 01/2017 Final Decision on Fees in the Electricity Sector in The Bahamas
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) issues this Statement of Results and Final Decision on its “Consultation on: Regulatory Fees for The Electricity Sector in The Bahamas – ES 05/2016” document (“the Consultation Document”) in exercise of its powers under section 38(3)(c) of the Electricity Act, 2015 (“EA”). URCA also has published its finalized text of the Regulatory Fees for the Electricity Sector (“ES”) in The Bahamas (ES 03/2017) as a separate document concurrently with the publication of this Statement of Results and Final Decision (ES 03/2017 is also attached as Appendix A to this document). On December 23, 2016 URCA published the Consultation Document and established January 27, 2017 as the closing date for the submission of responses. As stated in the Consultation Document, the EA grants URCA the powers to issue regulatory and other measures to regulate the ES. URCA has the regulatory remit to determine and assess fees on licensed entities to cover the costs of regulating of the ES. The Consultation Document was specific to the fees URCA will impose on licensed entities to cover the costs allocable to the regulation of the ES. URCA did not pose any specific questions under this Consultation Document. URCA, however, invited general submissions and comments to its approach to determining fees for the ES. URCA particularly encouraged submissions and comments on the terms and conditions contained in the Consultation Document. URCA received two written responses from Bahamas Power and Light Limited (BPL) and Mr. Vincent Wallace Whitfield. URCA thanks the two submitters for their comments and observations in response to the Consultation Document. This Statement of Results and Final Decision now sets out URCA’s reasons and reasoning for its determination of fees it will impose on licensed entities in the ES.ECS 01/2017 – Statement of Results and Final Determination on Mobile Number Portability
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) today published its Statement of Results and Final Determination on Mobile Number Portability (MNP). On December 14, 2016 URCA issued its Preliminary Determination on the Implementation of Mobile Number Portability in The Bahamas pursuant to Section 80 of the Communications Act, 2009 [ECS 40/2016] (hereinafter referred to as “the Preliminary Determination”). The Preliminary Determination incorporated the Local Number portability Business Rules (“the LNP Business Rules”) and outlined URCA’s preliminary views and proposals relative to the launching of Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in The Bahamas. The document invited comments from interested parties on matters related to the implementation of MNP in The Bahamas and subject to responses received, proposed the launch of MNP by 14 February 2017. This proposed date was based on an agreed schedule for the necessary preparatory activities for both providers concerned, namely the Bahamas Telecommunications Company Limited (BTC) and BeAliv Limited (Aliv). The launch of MNP requires both operators to implement various changes to their networks and business processes, and therefore requires extensive coordination by URCA. Commencing during the last week in January, URCA carried out an assessment of the operators’ readiness for MNP and noted, with disappointment, that neither operator was in a position to ensure a successful implementation of MNP by the proposed 14 February 2017 launch date. URCA was particularly concerned to note that in relation to several of the workflows necessary to support MNP, both Aliv and BTC appeared to have neglected to have made the required progress and moreover, that the information that had been provided on an ongoing basis by both operators to URCA, had not accurately reflected the operators’ actual readiness. URCA therefore asked an independent advisor to provide expert advice on the remaining work which both operators needed to do to implement MNP, and the time that such work would reasonably take. Further, URCA directed Aliv and BTC to each provide a written assessment of their own readiness and, based on that assessment, to provide URCA with a written commitment of the date on which they would be ready for MNP. Based on the advice of the expert consultant, and the operators’ written commitments, URCA’s Final Determination requires that MNP be available to persons in The Bahamas on any island where mobile services are available from more than one licensee, from 25 April 2017. The relevant licensees (BTC and Aliv) must ensure that they have completed the installation and testing of all required systems and processes for the implementation of MNP by no later than 14 April 2017. URCA has also issued as part of its Final Determination, the LNP Business Rules which will govern all fixed number portability (FNP) and MNP transactions in The Bahamas, with which all operators must comply. As the LNP Business Rules apply equally to FNP transactions, they supersede and replace the FNP Business Rules which URCA issued in its Second FNP Determination in 2013 and which has governed FNP to date. Finally, URCA’s Final Determination addresses various ancillary matters pertaining to MNP implementation, including the schedule for testing, and the public awareness campaign which will be undertaken by URCA and the licensees to ensure that the public is fully aware of the way that MNP will work in The Bahamas.- 17 Feb,2017
NNP 2011, Form N2
- 30 Dec,2016
ECS 35/2016 URCA Publishes Revised Regulation of Retail Prices for SMP Operators of Non Price Capped Services
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority, (URCA), today published, an “Addendum of Errors, Omissions and Corrections” in a revised version of the Regulation of Retail Prices for SMP Operators of Non Price Capped Services – Rules issued 30 September 2016. All revisions are detailed in the above referenced section of the revised document. ES 05/2016 Regulatory Fees for the Electricity Sector in The Bahamas
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) today issues the Consultation Document “Regulatory Fees for the Electricity Sector in The Bahamas” (ES 05/2016), which explains URCA’s methodology for setting fees and states what fees will be for 2017 in respect of matters subject to URCA’s regulatory jurisdiction under the Electricity Act, 2015 (EA). URCA is issuing this consultation document in compliance with Sections 41, 42 and 43 of the EA, which require URCA to consult the public on measures of public significance. Given that the setting of fees has a significant impact on persons generating, transmitting, distributing, or supplying electricity, URCA considers it to be a measure of public significance. URCA was empowered by the EA as the independent regulator for the Electricity Sector (ES) in The Bahamas. URCA is responsible for licensing persons who generate, transmit, distribute or supply electricity within, into, from or through The Bahamas. URCA’s powers and functions are set out in the EA, which includes the power to issue regulatory and other measures to regulate the sector. URCA shall determine and assess fees on licensed entities as necessary to cover the costs allocable to the regulation of the ES. This document follows URCA’s “Final Determination on Fees in the Electricity Sector in The Bahamas” (ES 05/2016) issued on September 29th, 2016. That document set out the types of fees that URCA would levy under the EA, but did not specify the methodology used to set the fees or state what the fees would be. Those matters are now addressed in this consultation document. URCA invites and welcomes written submissions and comments from interested parties with sufficient interest in matters set out in this Consultation Document. The written submissions and comments must be submitted to URCA by 27 January 2017. Written submissions and comments should be submitted to URCA either:- by hand to the Chief Executive Officer, Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority, Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau, Bahamas; or
- by email to info@urcabahamas.bs; or
- by mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas; or
- by facsimile to (242) 393-0237.
ECS 40/2016 Preliminary Determination on Mobile Number Portability
On December 14, 2016 Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) issued its Preliminary Determination providing for the implementation of Mobile Number Portability in The Bahamas (ECS 40/2016). The full document is available for download from URCA’s website at www.urcabahamas.bs. Number Portability (NP) enables persons to keep their telephone number(s) when switching providers, and while The Bahamas has benefitted from NP in respect of fixed telephone numbers since December 2013, NP for mobile telephone numbers is being implemented following the introduction of cellular mobile competition. Subject to consideration of comments received from interested parties, URCA is proposing in this preliminary determination to have mobile NP implemented and operational in The Bahamas from 14 February 2017. Annexed to the preliminary Determination is the Local Number Portability (LNP) Business Rules which provide the necessary rules in respect of NP for both fixed and mobile subscribers in The Bahamas. Consistent with the procedure set out in section 100 of the Comms Act, interested parties are advised that if they wish to make representations on any matter contained in this Preliminary Determination they may do so in writing to URCA. Such representations must be received by URCA by no later than 20 January 2017. URCA shall consider any representations made and make its Final Determination and any appropriate Order. URCA may request from any affected party such additional information as is reasonably required to make a Final Determination. Representations should be submitted to: Director of Electronic Communications, URCA, Frederick House, Frederick Street, P.O. Box N-4860 Nassau, The Bahamas Email: info@urcabahamas.bs Fax: 242.393.0237- 23 Dec,2016
ECS 41/2016 Statement of Result and Quality of Service Regulations and Network Performance Metrics
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”), today issued its Statement of Results and Final Decision (ECS 41/2016) along with the finalised text of the Quality of Service Regulations, ECS 42/2016 (the “QoS Regulations”). The Regulations are applicable to holders of Individual Operating Licences (IOLs) that provide fixed or fixed wireless telephony services, cellular mobile voice and data services, and internet services, including both legacy services and next-generation services. On 23 December 2015, URCA published its consultation document on "Quality of Service Regulations for Electronic Communications Networks and Services in The Bahamas”, ECS 06/2015, which invited comments from interested parties and the public. The period for submission of written responses and comments to the consultation document closed on 26 February 2016. During the consultation period URCA received written responses from Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd. (BTC); and Cable Bahamas Ltd. (CBL). URCA appreciates and thanks the respondents for their participation in this public consultation process. This Final Decision and the accompanying QoS Regulations are made by URCA having reviewed and fully considered all responses to the consultation, and the publication of these documents conclude the public consultation. The QoS Regulations are supplemental to URCA’s Consumer Protection Regulations as specified in ECS19/2013 issued on 26 May 2014. They are intended to give further effect to URCA’s duties outlined in sections 45 and 46 of the Comms Act. In addition to fulfilling the aforementioned duties, the QoS Regulations are aimed at implementing electronic communications policy objectives set out in section 4 of the Comms Act, in particular to enhance the efficiency of the Bahamian electronic communications sector and the productivity of the Bahamian economy, and to further the interests of persons in The Bahamas in relation to the electronic communications sector. ES 04/2016 Preliminary Determination on BPL’s Small-Scale Renewable Generation Plan
Today the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority, (URCA) published an Initial Decision and Preliminary Determination on the Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) Small-Scale Renewable Generation Plan. This document sets out URCA’s proposed revision of BPL’s Small-Scale Renewable Generation Plan for residents and businesses interested in the sale, installation and use of solar panels for the generation of electricity. The objective of the document is to:- highlight the key elements of BPL’s Small-Scale Renewable Generation Plan;
- discuss URCA’s review and proposed changes to the Plan; and
- invite comments from BPL and other stakeholders on URCA’s review and proposed changes.
- Residents and businesses within BPL’s service areas that have already installed solar panels and storage equipment can have certainty regarding the legality of and, required inspections and required approvals for their existing activities, and clarity over the potential for future impacts on their investments.
- Suppliers of solar generation equipment, as well as consumers considering installing such equipment on their properties, can take advantage of changes in the existing legal framework.
- All consumers in BPL’s service area have the opportunity to provide efficient small-scale renewable energy to the grid.
- by hand to: the Acting Chief Executive Officer, Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority, Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau, Bahamas; or
- by email to: info@urcabahamas.bs; or
- by mail to: P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas or
- by facsimile to: (242) 393-0237.
- 04 Nov,2016
ECS 39/2016 Notice – Review of Wholesale Fixed Broadband Resale Offer Industry Questionnaire
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) is reviewing the wholesale fixed broadband resale obligations imposed on operators with Significant Market Power (SMP) in The Bahamas. As part of this review, URCA is issuing a questionnaire to industry stakeholders. This questionnaire will be used to assess the demand for these wholesale services and any need to potentially amend the current service offers. - 26 Oct,2016
ECS 11/2014 Spectrum Pricing Review
Benchmarks for Review of Spectrum PricingDownloads
- 12 Oct,2016
URCA 01/2016 – URCA Publishes Draft Consultation Procedures Guidelines for Public Comment
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) today published its Draft Consultation Procedure Guidelines (URCA 01/2016) setting out the manner in which stakeholders in the sectors it regulates and the community may comment on regulatory and public policy matters that URCA addresses. The consultation will be open for comments until 25 November 2016 during which period comments may be submitted to URCA. URCA is encouraging the public to share its views the draft Consultation Procedure Guidelines which will establish the rules under which URCA engages the community on issues affecting the electronics communications and electricity sectors. Consultation Documents are periodically published by URCA on matters affecting consumers and operators in the two sectors which URCA currently regulates, namely the electronic communications sector and the electricity sector. The consultation process is the avenue through which URCA obtains the input of interested persons and the public in its decision making process. ECS 34/2016 Final Determination on Pricing Rules for Non Price Capped Service
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has published its Final Determination and Statement of Results on the “Consultation on Proposed Revision of the Retail Pricing Rules for Price Regulated Services Not Subject to Price Cap Regulation (Non Price Capped Services)” (ECS 34/2016). In this Final Determination, URCA presents its amendments of the “Regulation of Retail Prices for SMP Operators – Rules” (ECS 06/2014), also known as the Retail Pricing Rules or the Rules. This Final Determination sets out URCA’s revisions to the Rules for Non Price Capped Services taking into account the responses received during the consultation period. The published document also provides URCA’s feedback on responses received to the consultation, which comprised two rounds of comments from interested persons. At the close of the initial response period (i.e., 8 July 2016) URCA received written comments from Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd. (BTC), Cable Bahamas Limited (CBL), and New2015 Limited (NewCo). In the second consultation round responses were received from BTC and CBL.Downloads
Press ECS 34/2016 - Press ReleaseECS 34/2016 - Final Determination on Pricing Rules for Non Price Capped Service ECS 35/2016 - Revised Rules for Non Price Capped ServicesECS 16/2016 - NewCo responses to Revised Rules for Non Price Capped ServicesECS 34/2016 - BTC responses to Revised Rules for Non Price Capped ServicesES 03/2016 Final Determination on Fees in the Electricity Sector in The Bahamas
Final Determination On Fees For The Electricity Sector In The Bahamas (ES 03/2016) The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has published its Final Determination On Fees For The Electricity Sector In The Bahamas - ES 03/2016 (the Final Determination) in furtherance to its Preliminary Determination On Fees For The Electricity Sector In The Bahamas – ES 01/2016 (the Preliminary Determination). Copies of the Final Determination and Preliminary Determination may be downloaded from URCA’s website at: https://urcabahamas.bs/download/014396600.pdfECS 19/2016 Consultation on BTC’s amended Reference Access and Interconnection Offer
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) issues this Notice in accordance with section 11 of the Communications Act, 2009. Further to URCA’s Final Determination (ECS 19/2016) on the required changes to BTC’s Reference Access and Interconnection Offer (RAIO), BTC submitted its amended RAIO to URCA for its review and final approval. The amended RAIO can be downloaded from URCA’s website at https://urcabahamas.bs/download/030674000.pdf. URCA invites and welcomes written comments from interested parties regarding the amendments set out in the revised BTC RAIO. The timelines for submitting comments and URCA’s final review and approval are set forth below:- Interested parties may submit comments to URCA on BTC’s RAIO amendments on or before September 19, 2016.
- URCA will provide BTC with copies of all responses received.
- BTC may submit comments to URCA on the responses received on or before September 26, 2016.
- Upon review of all comments URCA will indicate BTC’s compliance or otherwise with URCA’s Final Determination (ECS 19/2016) in the shortest practicable timeframe.
- by hand, to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau; or
- by mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas; or
- by fax, to (242) 323-7288; or
- by email, to info@urcabahamas.bs.
- 29 Aug,2016
ECS 17/2016 Responses to Public Consultation on SMP in Call Termination for Mobile for NewCo
On 15 July 2016 , URCA published for consultation its “Preliminary Determination on the Assessment of Significant Market Power in Mobile Call and Short Messaging Termination Services on NewCo2015 Limited’s Cellular Mobile Network in The Bahamas pursuant to Section 39(1) of the Communications Act, 2009” (ECS 17/2016). In this document, URCA made determinations regarding the definition of markets, the existence of NewCo having significant market power (SMP) in those markets and the extent to which ex-ante regulation is appropriate in those markets. At the close of the initial response period (i.e., 15 August 2016) URCA received written comments from Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd. (BTC) and NewCo2015 Limited (NewCo). Interested parties are now invited to further comment on responses made by BTC and NewCo by 5:00 p.m. on or before 19 September 2016. Directions for the submission of comments are contained in the consultation document, which can be found on URCA’s website at: https://urcabahamas.bs/consultations.php?cmd=view&article=408. Upon consideration of written responses, URCA will publish a Final Determination on the results of the consultation. URCA encourages respondents to adhere to the new deadline for making written submissions on the first round responses. ECS 19/2016 Statement of Results and Final Determination on RAIO
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has published its Final Determination on the amendments to the Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd. (BTC) Reference Access and Interconnection Offer (RAIO), issued to BTC on Monday 8 August 2016.- 08 Aug,2016
ES 03/2016 Statement of Results and Final Determination on Public Electricity Supplier Licence
ES 02/2016 BPL responds to URCA Licence Consultation
- 26 Jul,2016
ECS 16/2016 Responses to Public Consultation on the Proposed Revision of the Retail Pricing Rules for Price Regulated Services
ES 02/2016 – Consultation on Draft Public Electricity Supplier Licence
Downloads
ES 01/2016 – Preliminary Determination on Fees in the Electricity Sector in The Bahamas
ECS 17/2016 Preliminary Determination SMP in Call Termination for Mobile for NewCo
ECS 17/2016 Preliminary Determination SMP in Call Termination for Mobile for NewCo
ECS 09/2016 Preliminary Determination on Proposed Revisions to BTC RAIO
- 26 May,2016
ECS 16/2016 Preliminary Determination on Proposed Revision of Retail Pricing Rules for Non Price Capped Services
- 10 May,2016
ECS 09/2016 Responses to Public Consultation on Proposed Changes to the RAIO Published by BTC
- 10 May,2016
ECS 10/2016 Responses to Public Consultation on Provision of National Roaming Services on the Cellular Mobile Networks of the Bahamas Telecommunications
ECS 15/2016 Draft Annual Plan 2016 – Statement of Results
- 04 May,2016
2016 Annual Plan
URCA Publishes the responses to its Draft Annual Plan 2016 ECS 09/2016 Preliminary Determination on Proposed Revisions to BTC RAIO
ECS 10/2016 Preliminary Determination and Draft Order National Roaming
- 18 Feb,2016
ECS 07/2015 Extension for Submission of Responses to Technical Standards Framework for FM Radio Broadcasting
ECS 01/2016 Review of Radio Frequency Spectrum Pricing
This Statement of Results and Final Decision is issued by the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (“URCA”) pursuant to sections 8(1)(e), 29 and 93 of the Communications Act, 2009 (Comms Act). The publication of this document concludes URCA's public consultation on "Review of Radio Frequency Spectrum Pricing" (ECS 04/2014).ECS 14/2015 Statement of Results and Final Decision
URCA issues its Statement of Results and Final Decision in response to Cable Bahamas Limited applicationsECS 11/2015 Guidelines – Calculating Net Cost of USO Obligations – CBL
ECS 09/2015 Guidelines – Calculating Net Cost of USO Obligations – BTC
- 30 Dec,2015
ECS 08/2015 Final Determination on the Proposed Revision of the Access and Interconnection Framework
ECS 07/2015 Technical Standards Framework for FM Broadcasting in The Bahamas
- 22 Dec,2015
ECS 06/2015 Draft Quality of Service Regulations and Network Performance Metrics for Electronic Communications Networks and Services in The Bahamas
Draft Quality of Service Regulations and Network Performance Metrics for Electronic Communications Networks and Services in The Bahamas Under Sections 45 and 46 of the Communications Act, 2009 Consultation will close on February 12, 2016 ECS 05/2015 Statement of Results – Infrastructure Sharing Regulations
URCA releases the Statement of Results which details feedback to the draft Infrastructure Sharing Regulations during consultation.ECS 04/2015 Infrastructure Sharing Regulations
Following two rounds of consultation, URCA today released the Infrastructure Sharing Regulations for the Electronic Communications Sector.Preliminary Determination Issued to CBL for Contravention of Interim Order
URCA issues preliminary decision re contravention of Interim Order by Cable Bahamas Ltd.ECS 03/2015 Statement of Results – Draft 2015 Annual Plan
Statement of Results – Draft 2015 Annual Plan
URCA releases its Statement of Results following consultation on the 2015 Draft Annual PlanECS 02/2015 Proposed Revision of Access and Interconnection Framework
This document comprises a Preliminary Determination through which URCA proposes to revise the existing Access and Interconnection Framework in The Bahamas.ECS 17/2014 Responses to URCA’s Proposed Infrastructure Sharing Regulation
Members of the public are invited to submit their responses to URCA's Proposed Infrastructure Sharing Regulations during this second round of consultations until March 11th 2015 when the consultation period will close.ECS 20/2014 Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Scheme for Disputes Between Licensees
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Scheme for Disputes Between LicenseesECS 19/2014 Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Guidelines
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Guidelines:-Statement of Results and Final Determination.- 31 Dec,2014
Draft 2015 Annual Plan
Downloads
- 31 Dec,2014
Draft 2015 Plan
URCA opens consultation on its Draft 2015 Plan and invites responses from interested persons. Cable Bahamas Makes Application for Price Increase on Basic Television Service
Cable Bahamas Ltd. Basic Television Service Application
ECS 18/2014 Consultation Document: Cable Bahamas Ltd. Pricing Application
ECS 17/2014 Proposed Infrastructure Sharing Regulations
ECS 14/2014 Assessment of Significant Market Power in the ECS
URCA ISSUES FINAL ASSESSMENT RE:SMPECS 10/2014 Cable Bahamas Ltd Comments on BTC’s Response
Downloads
ECS 10/2014 BTC responds to Preliminary Determination on SMP
ECS 10/2014 BTC responds to Preliminary Assessment of SMP
ECS 10/2014 CBL responds to URCA’s Preliminary Assessment re SMP
Guidelines – Calculating Net Cost of USO Obligations
- 20 Jun,2014
ECS 12/2014 Consultation/Final Determination Re Wholesale Fixed Call Termination Price Control -SMP Licensees
The Utilities Regulation and competition Authority (URCA) publishes its Statement of Results and Final Determination on “Wholesale Fixed Call Termination Price Control For Significant Market Power (SMP) Licensees” (ECS 12/2014). The consultation document (ECS 01/2014) which sets out URCA’s preliminary views and proposals on Wholesale Fixed Call termination for SMP Licensees, was released to the public on March 7th 2014. Feedback was received from The Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd. (BTC) and Cable Bahamas Limited (CBL) including Caribbean Crossings Ltd and Systems Resources Group Ltd. This Final Determination is yet another major initiative by URCA as the regulator of the Electronic Communications Sector, to foster fair and sustainable competition amongst licensees. The full Statement of Results and the full Press Statement can be downloaded by clicking on the PDF documents below. ECS 11/2014 Benchmarks for Review of Spectrum Pricing
ECS 19/2013 Consumer Protection Booklet Released
Downloads
ECS 10/2014 Preliminary Determination, Assessment of SMP in ECS
ECS 09/2014 Statement of Results, 2014 Annual Plan
ECS 06/2014 Regulation of Retail Prices for SMP Operators- Rules
ECS 05/2014 Statement of Results, Retail Price Regulation
ECS 04/2014 Consultation Document, Review of Radio Frequency Spectrum Fees
ECS 02/2014 Consultation Document, ADR Guidelines
ECS 01/2014 Preliminary Determination, Wholesale Fixed Call Termination Price
ECS 19/2013 Consumer Protection Regulations, Version 1.0.1
- 05 Feb,2014
CBL’s Response Draft 2014 Annual Plan
Downloads
- 03 Feb,2014
BTC’s Responses to Draft 2014 Annual Plan
ECS 16/2013 Response by BTC (January 3, 2014)
Downloads
ECS 20/2013 Consultation Document: URCA Draft Annual Plan 2014
- 30 Dec,2013
ECS 19/2013 Consumer Protection Regulations
ECS 18/2013 Statement of Results: URCA Consumer Protection Regulation
ECS 16/2013 Response by CBL (December 6 2013)
Downloads
ECS 16/2013 Response by Digicel (December 5, 2013)
Implementation of Number Portability in The Bahamas
Number Portability Information Brochure
Downloads
- 02 Dec,2013
Number Portability Information Brochure
Number Portability Information Brochure ECS 17/2013 Third Final Determination for FNP: Cost Allocation and Recovery
ECS 16/2013 Consultation Document: Review Retail Price Regulations
ECS 15/2013 Second Final Determination: Fixed Number Portability
ECS 11/2013 BTC’s Submission: Tariffs for LNP
Downloads
ECS 14/2013 Consultation Document: Draft Regulation USF Rules
- 02 Sep,2013
ECS 11/2013 CBL’s Response
Downloads
- 02 Sep,2013
ECS 11/2013 BTC’s Response
Downloads
- 30 Aug,2013
ECS 07/2013 FRWilson’s Response
- 30 Aug,2013
ECS 07/2013 CBL’s Response
- 30 Aug,2013
ECS 07/2013 BTC’s Response
Response by CBL, CCL and SRG to 2013 Draft Annual Plan
ECS 13/2013 Final Determination and Statement of Results
ECS 11/2013 CBL’s Submission: Tariffs for LNP
Downloads
- 31 Jul,2013
ECS 07/2013 Public Response
ECS 11/2013 Preliminary Determination: Implementation of FNP
ECS 06/2013 Response by BTC (Second), Preliminary Determination
ECS 06/2013 Response by CBL (Second), Preliminary Determination
ECS 10/2013 Consultation Document: Draft ECS Policy 2013-2016
- 02 Jul,2013
ECS 10/2013 ECS Policy
ECS 06/2013 Response by Digicel to Preliminary Determination
ECS 06/2013 Response by CBL to Preliminary Determination
Response by BTC to Preliminary Determination
ECS 07/2013 Consumer Summary of Consultation Document
ECS 07/2013 Consultation Document: Draft Consumer Protection Regulations
ECS 06/2013 Preliminary Determination: SMP in Call Termination
- 09 May,2013
Submission by BTC (May 9, 2013)
- 30 Apr,2013
Statement of Results, 2013 Annual Plan
ECS 04/2013 RFP For Spectrum Pricing Review Consultant
- 12 Apr,2013
Submission by CBL (April 12 2013)
- 27 Mar,2013
Submission by BTC (March 27, 2013)
- 11 Feb,2013
Statement of Results and Final Decision
- 11 Feb,2013
Responses by the Public to the Consultation
Downloads
- 01 Feb,2013
Response by BTC to 2013 Draft Annual Plan
- 23 Jan,2013
Statement of Results/Final Decision -USO
Preliminary Determination and Draft Order – BTC Network Outage
URCA Issues Preliminary Determination and Draft Order – BTC June Network Outages Following its investigation into the Bahamas Telecommunications Company Limited’s (BTC) network outage on June 18th of this year, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) made a preliminary finding that BTC breached Condition 27.1.1 (a) of its individual operating licence, by failing to take all reasonably practicable steps to maintain, to the greatest extent possible, the proper and effective functioning of its public telephone network. Accordingly, URCA issued a Preliminary Determination and Draft Order to BTC on December 21, 2012. The Preliminary Determination outlines URCA’s investigative findings and the Draft Order prescribes measures to be imposed on BTC, in order to rectify the breach, including preventative measures going forward. BTC has been given until January 25, 2013 to respond URCA’s position. It is a statutory requirement that the regulator permit licensees an opportunity to present any representation or objections, before a final determination and order may be issued...You may download URCA's complete statement by following the below PDF document linkConsultation Document: Draft Annual Plan for 2013
ECS 25/2012 Statement of Results: BTC RAIO Charges Going Forward
ECS 23/2012 Response by Cable Bahamas Limited to the Consultation
Downloads
Response by IPSI, RAIO Charges Going Forward
ECS 23/2012 Consultation Document: Price Change for SuperBasic Cable TV
ECS 21/2012 Response by CBL to RAIO Charges Going Forward
ECS 21/2012 Response by BTC to RAIO Charges Going Forward
ECS 21/2012 Final Determination on Implementation of Number Portability
ECS 21/2012 Consultation Document: Setting RAIO Charges Going Forward
ECS 18/2012 Statement of Results/Final Decision: Regulatory (Separated) Acct
ECS 15/2012 Response by BTC: Preliminary Determination, NP Implementation
ECS 12/2012 Response by CBL to USO Consultation
Downloads
ECS 12/2012 Response by BTC to USO Consultation
- 06 Jun,2012
ECS 16/2012 Statement of Results/Final Determination: Consumer Complaints Handling Procedures
Request For Proposals: Number Portability Administrative Service
ECS 15/2012 Preliminary Determination: Implementation of Number Portability
ECS 11/2012 Final Determination and Order, Code of Practice
Recommendations by Number Portability Working Group; Phase 1
ECS 11/2012 Response by BTC to Preliminary Determination and Draft Order
ECS 11/2012 able Bahamas Limited’s Response, Preliminary Determination and Draft Order
ECS 06/2012 Code of Practice, Version 1.0.1 [Addendum of Errors, Etc]
ECS 12/2012 Consultation Document: Clarification/Implementation of USO
ECS 04/2012 Response by BTC to The Cost Efficiency Study
ECS 04/2012 Response by CBL to the Cost Efficiency Study
ECS 06/2012 Template: Broadcasters’ Public Announcement, Code of Practice
ECS 11/2012 Preliminary Determination and Draft Order, Code of Practice
ECS 08/2012 Statement of Results: Consultation on Draft Policy
ECS 10/2012 Request for Applications: 700MHz Radiofrequency Spectrum
ECS 09/2012 Policy for New Spectrum Bands: 700MHz, 11GHZ, 12GHz and 42GHz
ECS 05/2012 Statement of Results, Code of Practice
ECS 06/2012 Final Decision: Code of Practice for Content Regulation
- 20 Feb,2012
ECS 1/2012 Response by BTC to Draft Policy
- 20 Feb,2012
ECS 1/2012 Response by IPSI to Draft Policy
ECS 1/2012 Response by Digicel (Additional Submission) to Draft Policy
ECS 1/2012 Response by Digicel to Draft Policy
Downloads
- 20 Feb,2012
ECS 1/2012 Response by CBL to Draft Policy
ECS 04/2012 Consultation Document: Cost Efficiency of BTC
ECS 01/2012 Response by Peace Holdings Ltd. to Draft Policy
ECS 23/2011 Response by CBL to the Consultation
- 10 Feb,2012
ECS 23/2011 Response by BTC to Consultation
ECS 23/2011 Response by Linda Thomas to the Consultation
ECS 24/2011 Response by CBL to 2012 Draft Plan and 3-Yr Strategy
ECS 24/2011 Response by BTC to 2012 Draft Plan and 3-Yr Strategy
ECS 21/2011 Response by Cable Bahamas Limited to the Consultation
ECS 21/2011 Response by the Bahamas Telecommunications Company
- 02 Feb,2012
ECS 03/2012 Statement of Results/Final Decision: BTC Application for Retail Charge for Directory Enquiry Services
ECS 01/2012 Consultation Document: Draft Policy, 700MHz, 11GHZ, 12GHz, 42GHz
- 30 Dec,2011
ECS 19/2011 Response by Bahamas Christian Council to Draft Code of Practice Friday December 30th, 2011
ECS 19/2011 Response by BTC to Draft Code of Practice
ECS 19/2011 Response by CBL to Draft Code of Practice
ECS 19/2011 Responses by Members of the Public to the Draft Code of Practice
Downloads
ECS 19/2011 Response by BCEP, Draft Code of Practice
ECS 24/2011 Consultation Document: Draft Annual Plan 2012 and 3-Yr Strategy
ECS 23/2011 Consultation Document: Guidelines for Developing Procedures
ECS 19/2011 Response by the BCB, Draft Code of Practice
ECS 21/2011 Supplement to the Consultation Document
CBL’s Application to URCA for Permanent Price Increase in Superb
Downloads
ECS 21/2011 Consultation Document: Publication of Separated Accounts
ECS 20/2011 Statement of Results: Number Portability for The Bahamas
ECS 22/2010 Response by SRG: Consultation BTC Draft RAIO (2nd Submission)
ECS 22/2010 Response by BTC to Submissions on BTC Draft RAIO Consultation
ECS 19/2011 Consultation Document: Code of Practice
ECS 18/2011 Response by The Bahamas Telecommunications Company
ECS 19/2011 Statement of Results: Assessment of SMP
ECS 20/2011 Final Decision: Methodology for Assessment of SMP
- 29 Sep,2011
Response by Edward Munroe
Downloads
- 23 Sep,2011
ECS 18/2011 Response by VRhodenwalt
Downloads
- 23 Sep,2011
ECS 18/2011 Response by Ryan Austin
Downloads
- 23 Sep,2011
ECS 18/2011 Response by Cynthia Stanko
Downloads
ECS 18/2011 Consultation Document: BTC Application for Price Change
ECS 08/2011 Response by CBL, SRG and CCL to Number Portability Consultation
ECS 17/2011 Bahamas National Numbering Plan (NNP), 2011
ECS 16/2011 Statement of Results Draft Numbering Plan
- 11 Aug,2011
NNP 2011, Form N5
- 11 Aug,2011
NNP 2011, Form N4
- 11 Aug,2011
NNP 2011, Form N3
- 11 Aug,2011
NNP 2011, Form N1 (Part 3)
- 11 Aug,2011
NNP 2011, Form N1 (Part 2)
- 11 Aug,2011
NNP 2011, Form N1 (Part 1)
ECS 09/2011 Response by Bahamas Telecommunications Company, 2nd Submission
ECS 13/2011 Statement of Results Review of Public Service Broadcasting
- 29 Jun,2011
ECS 09/2011 Response by the Bahamas Telecommunications Company
ECS 08/2011 Response by BTC to Number Portability Consultation
ECS 12/2011 Statement of Results/Final Decision:Charging for Joining Services
ECS 10/2011 Statement of Results: Opening New Spectrum Bands
ECS 11/2011 Guidelines for Opening New Spectrum Bands
ECS 09/2011 Methodology for Assessment of Significant Market Power (SMP)
Downloads
ECS 07/2011 Response by Cable Bahamas Limited
Downloads
ECS 07/2011 Response by the Bahamas Telecommunications Company
ECS 07/2011 Consultation Document: Charging for Joining Circuits
ECS 08/2011 Consultation Document: Number Portability for The Bahamas
ECS 29/2010 Response by Cable Bahamas Limited and Caribbean Crossings Ltd.
Downloads
ECS 29/2010 Response by the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas
Downloads
- 24 Feb,2011
ECS 29/2010 Response by EJ Russell
Downloads
- 17 Feb,2011
ECS 29/2010 Response by Coast 106.1FM
Downloads
ECS 26/2010 Response by BTC (Addendum) to 2011 Draft Plan and 3-Yr Strategy
ECS 26/2010 Response by CBL and CCL to 2011 Draft Plan and 3-Yr Strategy
ECS 26/2010 Response by SRG to 2011 Draft Plan and 3-Yr Strategy
- 11 Jan,2011
ECS 01/2011 Final Decision: BTC Draft RAIO
ECS 29/2010 Consultation on Review of Public Service Broadcasting
ECS 23/2010 Response by SRG, Opening of New Spectrum Bands
ECS 26/2010 Consultation Document: Draft Annual Plan 2011 and 3-Yr Strategy
ECS 23/2010 Response by CBL and CCL, Opening New Spectrum Bands
ECS 23/2010 Response by BTC, Opening New Spectrum Bands
ECS 23/2010 Response by AMP’d Wireless, Opening New Specturm Bands
ECS 22/2010 Response by CBL: to Submissions on BTC Draft RAIO
ECS 23/2009 Final Determination: Cost of Capital, Designated SMPs
ECS 23/2010 Response by Hi-Technology, Opening New Spectrum Bands
ECS 22/2010 Response by LIME: Consultation BTC Draft RAIO
ECS 22/2010 Response by SRG: Consultation BTC Draft RAIO
ECS 22/2010 Response by CBL: Consultation BTC Draft RAIO
ECS 22/2010 Response by BTC: Consultation BTC Draft RAIO
ECS 23/2010 Response by Peace Holdings Ltd, Opening New Spectrum Bands
ECS 23/2010 Consultation Document: Opening New Spectrum Bands
ECS 22/2010 Consultation Document: Draft BTC RAIO
ECS 19/2010 Response by SRG to Statement of Results, NNP 2008
ECS 19/2010 Response by CBL to Statement of Results, NNP 2008
ECS 19/2010 Reponse by BTC to Statement of Results, NNP 2008
ECS 21/2010 Statement of Results, Process for Developing Content Codes
- 25 May,2010
ECS 19/2010 Statement of Results, NNP 2008
- 25 May,2010
Draft NNP 2010, Appendix 3
- 25 May,2010
Draft NNP 2010, Appendix 2
- 25 May,2010
Draft NNP 2010, Appendix 1, Part 4
- 25 May,2010
Draft NNP 2010, Appendix 1, Part 3
- 25 May,2010
Draft NNP 2010, Appendix 1, Part 2
- 25 May,2010
Draft NNP 2010, Appendix 1, Part 1
- 25 May,2010
Draft NNP 2010, Appendix 1
- 25 May,2010
Draft NNP 2010, Appendix 1-D
- 25 May,2010
Draft NNP 2010, Appendix 1-C
- 25 May,2010
Draft NNP 2010, Appendix 1-B
- 25 May,2010
Draft NNP 2010, Appendix 1-A
ECS 20/2010 Bahamas National Numbering Plan (Draft) 2010
ECS 11/2010 Final Decision: Obligations Imposed on Operators with SMP
ECS 14/2010 Final Guidelines: Access and Interconnection
ECS 13/2010 Final Guidelines CBL: Accounting Separation and Cost Accounting
ECS 12/2010 Final Guidelines, BTC: Accounting Separation and Cost Accounting
ECS 15/2010 Regulation of Retail Prices for SMP Operator – Rules
ECS 10/2010 Interim Code of Practice for Broadcasting Content
ECS 07/2010 Response by CBL (2nd), Position Paper, Type of Obligations
ECS 07/2010 Response by CBL, Position Paper, Type of Obligations
ECS 07/2010 Response by BTC: Position Paper, Type of Obligations
ECS 07/2010 Position Paper: Types of Obligations, BTC and CBL
ECS 02/2010 Response by BTC, Process for Developing Content Codes
ECS 02/2010 Response by IPSI, Process for Developing Content Codes
ECS 02/2010 Response by DJohnson, Process for Developing Content Codes
ECS 25/2009 Response by SRG to 2010 Draft Plan and 3-Yr Strategy
ECS 25/2009 Response by CBL and CCL to Draft 2010 Plan and 3-Yr Strategy
ECS 04/2010 Final Determination: Types of Obligations BTC and CBL
ECS 25/2009 Response by BTC to 2010 Draft Plan and 3-Yr Strategy
ECS 02/2010 Consultation Document: Process for Developing Content Codes
- 22 Jan,2010
Additional Response by CBL and CCL
- 22 Jan,2010
CBL and CCL’s Proposed Obligations
- 22 Jan,2010
Final Response by BTC
ECS 26/2010 Response by BTC to 2011 Draft Plan and 3-Yr Strategy
ECS 01/2010 Interim Code of Practice for Political Broadcasters
ECS 25/2009 – Consultation Document: Draft Annual Plan 2010 and 3-Yr Strategy
Response by SRG to Prelim Determination, Type Obligations CBL
Response by SRG to Prelim Determination, Type Obligations BTC
ECS 22/2009 Response by Digicel to Draft Guidelines
ECS 24/2009 Final Determination: Class Licences, Exemptions, Types of Fees
Note of Revisions to Preliminary Determination
ECS 03/2009 Response by BTC to Preliminary Determination
ECS 02/2009 Response by CBL to Preliminary Determination
ECS 19/2009 Preliminary Determination: Types of Obligations, CBL Comms 116
ECS 21/2009 Draft Guidelines: CBL Accounting Separation and Cost Accounting
ECS 18/2009 Preliminary Determination: Types of Obligations, BTC, Comms 116
ECS 20/2009 Draft Guidelines: BTC Accounting Separation and Cost Accounting
ECS 22/2009 Draft Guidelines: Access and Interconnection
ECS 17/2009 Statement of Results: Issues-Options, Access and Interconnection
ECS 16/2009 Statement of Results: Retail Pricing Regulations Consultation
ECS 03/2009 Preliminary Determination: Class Licences, Exemptions, Types of Fees
ECS 02/2009 Preliminary Determination: Cost of Capital, Designated SMPs
Response by Digicel to Consultation Document
- 31 Jul,2009
Response by CBL to Consultation Document
- 31 Jul,2009
Response by BTC to Consultation Document
- 30 Jul,2009
Response by SRG to Consultation Document
- 26 Jun,2009
Response by SRG to Consultations Document
- 26 Jun,2009
Response by Sawtel to Consultation Document
Consultation Document: Retailing Pricing Regulation in the ECS
