FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
URCA Issues Final Decision on Optional Modification to Standard Natural Gas Licence Conditions
Nassau, The Bahamas – 16 June 2026 – The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has published its Statement of Results and Final Decision on the NGS Non-commercial (Self-use) Restriction Licence Modification.
The Final Decision follows URCA’s public consultation, launched on 19 March 2026, which invited comments from interested parties on a proposed standard licence modification for certain licensees operating within the natural gas sector on a non-commercial, self-use basis.
The modification is intended to provide a proportionate regulatory framework for entities whose natural gas activities are limited to their own consumption and internal operational purposes, rather than commercial supply, resale, or trading. URCA’s decision confirms that while such entities remain subject to licensing and regulatory oversight under the Natural Gas Act, 2024, certain regulatory obligations may be tailored to reflect the reduced market impact and risk profile of qualifying self-use activities.
URCA received responses to the consultation from Baker’s Bay Utility Ltd. and RenugenPro Ltd. After considering the submissions received, URCA has determined that the proposed licence modification appropriately balances the need for effective regulatory oversight with the principle of proportionality.
The adopted licence condition restricts qualifying licensees to the use of natural gas for their own consumption and internal operational purposes only. It also establishes a standard volume threshold of 12,000 metric tonnes per calendar year, unless otherwise specified in writing by URCA.
URCA emphasizes that the modification does not constitute an exemption from licensing. Entities undertaking licensable activities within the natural gas sector remain required to obtain the relevant licence under the Natural Gas Act, 2024. The restriction instead operates within the licensing framework to ensure continued oversight of technical, operational, safety, health, and environmental considerations, while avoiding the unnecessary application of commercial regulatory obligations where they are not relevant.
The publication of this Statement of Results and Final Decision formally concludes the consultation process. URCA thanks all respondents for their participation and contribution to the development of the regulatory framework for the natural gas sector in The Bahamas.
The full Statement of Results and Final Decision is available below:
Statement of Results and Final Decesion Licence Condition Modificaiton
Media Contact:
Juan McCartney
Corporate & Consumer Relations Manager
Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority
Telephone: (242) 393-0234
Website: www.urcabahamas.bs