The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has released its Statement of Results (SoR) on
the Draft 2025 Annual Plan, addressing key stakeholder feedback received during the consultation
period.
The Draft Annual Plan, initially issued for public consultation on December 20, 2024, outlined URCA’s
strategic priorities and regulatory initiatives for the Electronic Communications Sector, Electricity Sector,
and emerging Natural Gas Sector in The Bahamas.
URCA received comprehensive written submissions from the Bahamas Telecommunications Company
Limited and a joint response from Cable Bahamas Limited and Be Aliv Limited.
These responses raised concerns regarding regulatory priorities, budget allocations, project feasibility,
and the consultation process.
URCA has acknowledged concerns about workforce retention and emphasized its commitment to
ensuring regulatory continuity.
Stakeholders also questioned the need for our Northern Bahamas Office initiative.
In response, URCA has opted to delay implementation and conduct further evaluation of alternatives for
stakeholder engagement and regulatory oversight.
Industry concerns over budget increases, including consumer education and PR spending, were noted.
URCA has clarified the reasoning behind the increases and committed to exploring cost-saving measures
while ensuring effective regulatory oversight.
Numerous other points of stakeholder feedback were addressed in the SoR.
URCA will publish its final decision on the 2025 Annual Plan by April 30, 2025.
A public stakeholder forum is scheduled for March 19, 2025 to address outstanding concerns and
discuss industry recommendations. Additionally, a revised budget proposal will be issued to incorporate
cost-efficiency measures.
URCA remains committed to transparent, inclusive, and effective regulation, ensuring the sustainable
development of The Bahamas’ regulated utility sectors while fostering innovation, consumer protection,
and market efficiency.
To view the SoR and the responses to URCA’s Draft 2025 Draft Annual Plan, as well as the submissions
from stakeholders, please visit URCA’s website at www.urcabahamas.bs.
Media Contact:
Juan McCartney
Corporate and Consumer Relations Manager
Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority
jmccartney@urcabahamas.bs
1 (242) 396-5242
Link to Full document PDF’s below: