Dear Editor,

THE Public Utilities Commission has noted the comments made in a letter to the editor penned by Mr. Tony Vieira in the December 24, 2024 edition (Page 22) of the Stabroek News newspaper.
The PUC notes the concerns raised by Mr. Tony Vieira as they relate to his experience of what may be allegedly an inconsistent electrical feed to his premises, and the damages it may have caused to his personal electrical and electronic equipment.
We understand the frustration and inconvenience such disruptions bring to citizens when they occur, and we take these matters seriously. Evidently, these problems cannot be rectified properly if not brought promptly to the attention of the service provider.
As it relates to the comment that ‘a government-appointed body cannot be a proper regulating agency for the government-owned corporation’, the law is clear.

The Public Utilities Commission Act states that the Commission, in the exercise and discharge of its functions, shall not be subject to the direction or control of any person or authority (emphasis supplied).
It also has the power to do anything, which, in its reasonable opinion, is calculated to facilitate the proper discharge of its functions. Failure to secure redress, the consumer has the option of contacting the PUC and filing a complaint.
Further, we have also noted with concern the comment by Mr. Vieira that “…there is no proper functioning Public Utilities Commission to which you can turn”.

Mr. Vieira may be aware that the Commission’s mandate includes addressing complaints, conducting investigations, and working with the service providers to rectify operational deficiencies when identified.
The Commission’s record speaks for itself. For the period 2023-2024, the Commission would have resolved 72 per cent of the complaints filed with it in favour of consumers, inclusive of the two State-owned enterprises.
Further, it would have received credits totalling $60.3 million on behalf of complainants for this period. Mr. Vieira, perhaps, could have checked the Commission’s website, which publishes the work of the Commission and includes its annual reports dating back to 1991, orders of the Commission, statistical information etc. prior to making such damaging and reckless statements in the public domain.

The Commission takes this opportunity to advise consumers who may have issues relating to a faulty service from the service provider to file a complaint immediately with the provider and follow the company’s claim procedure to file for compensation for the damaged item(s). If dissatisfied with the outcome, then such persons should approach the Commission.

We understand the significance of a reliable service to all consumers and we assure the public that the PUC remains committed to holding the service providers in the electricity, telecommunications and water and sewage sectors accountable, while at the same time seeking to ensure the improvement of the quality of service throughout Guyana.
Yours sincerely,
Public Utilities Commission