SOLOMON Islands Electricity Authority (SIEA) is taking tougher action against customers with huge outstanding bills.
The authority said it is doing this because it needs money for fuel for its generators.
Solomon Islands Water Authority (SIWA), the biggest debtor with an outstanding bill of $16 million, is the first to be targetted.
In a public notice, SIEA said since SIWA is unable to pay up, it is restricting power supply to them.
“Initially, these restrictions will apply each morning from 8am to 12midday,” SIEA says.
This may mean SIWA pumping stations that rely on power to pump water to residents of Honiara will be affected, putting further strain to the already water shortage in town.
The authority said SIWA’s bill is increasing by over $1 million per month.
“If this continues, SIEA will be forced to implement wider restrictions to SIWA and possibly to other consumers as there will be insufficient income to pay for generator fuel.
“We are trying to improve and streamline our operations for the benefit of all consumers.
“But until major debtors like SIWA meet their obligations, achieving our goals will be extremely difficult,” the authority said.
The Solomon Star understands this tough action was put in place by the authority’s new management.
SIWA’s general manager Fred Ganate said he is aware of the new step SIEA is taking and will be addressing the matter.
"We are holding a meeting to discuss the issue and find ways to address it," Mr Ganate told the Solomon Star.
By MOFFAT MAMU
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