Mindful that geopolitical tensions, including the war in Iran, continue to put pressure on global fuel prices and, in Saint Lucia, on electricity costs, the Government of Saint Lucia remains gravely concerned about the impact of higher electricity bills on households and businesses.
Against this background, Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre continues dialogue with LUCELEC to explore temporary measures that could ease immediate pressure on customers. Discussions have included possible payment plans, a halt to disconnections and further assistance the company could consider at the corporate level. LUCELEC has also expressed concern about the situation.
The Consumer Affairs Department will take these discussions forward with LUCELEC to explore more sustainable measures to ease consumers’ financial pressure.
The Government is also continuing to take action, where possible, to limit the costs households and businesses would otherwise have to bear.
For the pricing period October 26 to November 15, 2026, the Government is subsidising gasoline by $1.15 per imperial gallon and diesel by $2.50 per imperial gallon. This keeps both at $17.25 per gallon. Without these subsidies, gasoline would cost $18.40 per gallon, and diesel would cost $19.75 per gallon.
The government also continues to cover more than half the price of cooking gas in 20-pound and 22-pound cylinders.
For a 20-pound refill, consumers pay $36, and the government contributes $40.25. Without that assistance, the price would be $76.25.
For a 22-pound refill, consumers pay $40, and the government contributes $43.87. Without that assistance, the price would be $83.87.
The Government is absorbing these costs to keep fuel and cooking gas more affordable for consumers. This also strains public finances, reinforcing the need for longer-term measures to reduce Saint Lucia’s reliance on imported fuel.
The Government’s longer-term work includes exploring geothermal energy and removing VAT on qualifying solar photovoltaic equipment and installation services. These measures aim to increase renewable energy use, reduce Saint Lucia’s reliance on imported fossil fuels, and help stabilise electricity costs over time.
This Government will continue pursuing practical assistance to ease the immediate pressure on consumers while advancing longer-term measures to reduce the country’s exposure to overseas fuel prices. Further discussions between the Consumer Affairs Department and LUCELEC will examine possible measures to cushion the impact of higher electricity bills on households and businesses.
