Government to Reintroduce Water Subsidy

The Executive Council of The Public Entity Saba, has decided to reintroduce the subsidy for potable water, beginning from March 1st. The subsidy will reduce the price of water produced on the island by three cents per gallon, and is passed on directly to the consumer. The Executive Council decided to implement the subsidy now as the dry season begins because there was money available from the last time the subsidy was stopped due to increased rainfall. The Council is aware that when there is not enough rainfall, purchasing water adds another cost on the already extended budgets of many people, as most consumers and businesses then have to buy water on a regular basis. The money to reintroduce the subsidy was requested by Commissioner Zagers last week when a delegation from the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment was visiting the island.

With the implementation of this emergency measure, consumers will pay three cents per gallon less for water that is purchased through the water distributors, AquaSab and HES N.V. So persons will see the price of water reduced, compared to what they paid previously. As an example, if a consumer buys 1000 gallons of water, they should see a $30 reduction on their invoice, similarly the price should be reduced by 21.75 for 725 gallons and $15 for 500 gallons. All truckers that are delivering water must reduce their price accordingly. Persons that have questions about the pricing should contact the Executive Council.

Residents are reminded that they should take all necessary measures to conserve water and be cognizant about their water use. Additionally considering the limited number of water distributors, residents should also make sure that they do not wait until their cisterns are empty before ordering water, instead they should place their order while there is an adequate amount of water for regular activities in the cistern, this way they will not have to be without water for any length of time.

Saba Government Information Service.