The Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has established new maximum rates for the distribution of electricity in the Caribbean Netherlands. An average household in Bonaire and Saba will pay approximately 2 USD more per month starting July 1, while in Sint Eustatius, it will be approximately 3 USD less per month. The changes are a result of rising oil prices compared to the estimates that ACM made at the end of last year when setting the rates. Because those estimates could not be made in the same way across all islands, there is a slight upward adjustment in Bonaire and Saba and a downward adjustment in Sint Eustatius.
ACM sets the maximum rates for the production and distribution of electricity in the Caribbean Netherlands annually in December for the new year. Energy suppliers determine the rates they charge to residents and businesses based on these maximum rates. To account for fluctuating fuel prices, ACM adjusts the variable rate for electricity use as necessary on July 1. The maximum fixed rate does not change.
The Ministry of Climate and Green Growth subsidizes the costs of managing the electricity grid (the fixed rate) to the average European Dutch level in 2025. Additionally, an energy allowance and a supplementary purchasing power subsidy are available from the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment.
Bonaire
For Bonaire, the maximum variable usage rate increases from 0.3136 USD/kWh to 0.3220 USD/kWh. The maximum prepaid rate increases from 0.6439 USD/kWh to 0.6523 USD/kWh, before applying subsidies to the fixed rate. For the consumption of an average household in Bonaire, this means an increase of approximately 2 USD per month.
Sint Eustatius
For Sint Eustatius, the maximum variable usage rate decreases from 0.2961 USD/kWh to 0.2837 USD/kWh. For the consumption of an average household in Sint Eustatius, this means a decrease of approximately 3 USD per month.
Saba
For Saba, the maximum variable usage rate increases from 0.3797 USD/kWh to 0.3876 USD/kWh. For the consumption of an average household in Saba, this means an increase of approximately 2 USD per month.
