Frequently Asked Questions |
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What are the available consumer level voltages in the Bahamas?
Residential voltages available are:
120/240v single phase
120/208v single phase (dependent upon location)
120/208v three phase
What is a fuel surcharge?
The Fuel Surcharge is a component of your electricity bill that is calculated based on the fluctuations of fuel prices on the world market that impact what the utility must pay for its fuel.
Why do I have to pay for my own pole or transformer?
When it is necessary to extend the electrical system to supply a customer, the customer is required to pay a contribution towards this cost. Several factors are taken into account when calculating this cost and in many instances the customer does not pay the full cost. Additionally, all further maintenance is done by the utility at no additional cost.
Can I interconnect my solar panels to the BEC electricity grid?
Currently interconnection of any private generation (including solar panels) with the electricity grid is NOT allowed. Moreover, these installations MUST be configured to insure that this cannot happen. Such interconnects could cause injury or death to utility personnel. Any such installation discovered will be immediately disconnected from the grid and remain disconnected until the situation is corrected to the utility's satisfaction.
Can I buy a used utility pole for private use?
The Corporation does provide used poles in short lengths only (4-10 feet) for a minimal fee. Full length used poles are not sold. Full length new poles are not normally sold for private use.
How do I connect my generators to my house?
When connecting a generator you should secure the services of a licensed electrical contractor. The generation installation must be configured so that it is impossible for the generator to supply power back onto the electrical grid. Additionally, the installation must prevent the flow of power from the generator through the utility meter. The desired configuration can be achieved by the use of a correctly installed transfer switch/switches.
What do I have to do to get electricity to a new building being constructed?
Answer:
- The owner or the owner's electrical contractor must submit to the Ministry of Works & Utilities an application for a new supply. This should be done during the early stages of construction. Typically this is possible once the outer walls have been erected.
- Once this application is approved a copy will be sent to the Consumers Office of BEC (located at the Marathon Mall) for initial processing. If the installation is one that can be addressed by the Consumers Section this section will communicate with the customer any associated cost and/or requirements that must be satisfied prior to the installation taking place. After these requirements have been satisfied the customer can go to the Consumers Section at the Mall at Marathon with a copy of their paid contribution receipt to establish their account and pay their security deposit. This will result in their electrical meter being installed and their service activated once all works have been completed.
- If the installation requires an extension and or modification of the electrical system in the area the application will be transferred to the Technical Planning Department for a service proposal to be designed and quoted. The planning department will then communicate with the customer any associated cost and/or requirements that must be satisfied prior to the installation taking place.
- Once the customer has paid the required contribution their service request will be passed onto the Construction Department who will schedule the work to be done. When this work begins the customer can go to the Consumers Section at the Mall at Marathon with a copy of their paid contribution receipt to establish their account and pay their security deposit. This will result in their electrical meter being installed and their service activated once all works have been completed
I am planning to build in a subdivision that does not have any electricity. Will I have to pay for supply to come into the area?
Under the Bahamas Government's Subdivisions Act, developers are required to pay for the installation of utilities in subdivision that they develop. However, property owners and developers sell lots without meeting this requirement. BEC's advice is that you insure that the developer that you are purchasing from is meeting this requirement. Ask them for a copy of their approval to sell lots. This document is issued by the Ministry of Works Subdivision Section and outlines the developer's responsibilities. If you are purchasing through a real estate agent ask them to provide a copy of this document.
Should you purchase in an area where the developer has no such obligation then you will be required to pay costs associated with getting electrical supply to your property.
What is the minimum amount that can be paid to avoid service disconnection?
The entire bill should be paid by the due date. Any delay in paying the full amount on the bill by the due date could result in service disconnection. Late payments and short payments are made at the customer's risk and can result in the service being disconnected.
Does BEC know my power is out?
Not always. If you are without power, call (242-323-5561).
